EDB Hosts Regional Exporters Networking Forum in Chilaw
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) successfully organized the North Western and North Central Provinces Exporters’ Networking Forum on 25 June 2026 at the Nilawin Hotel & Resort in Chilaw.
The forum brought together exporters, government officials, financial institutions, trade associations, and other stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Sri Lanka’s regional export sector.
The programme was held under the patronage of Hon. Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, with the participation of exporters representing the North Western and North Central Provinces.
🌍 Creating Stronger Regional Export Opportunities
The main objective of the forum was to strengthen regional export capabilities and create a direct communication platform between exporters, government institutions, and policymakers.
Regional exporters were able to discuss important challenges affecting international trade, including:
- 📑 Customs procedures and documentation
- ⚖️ Legal and administrative requirements
- 🌍 Access to international markets
- 🚢 Export logistics and supply chains
- 💼 Government support for exporters
- 📈 Opportunities for regional export growth
- 🤝 Building stronger connections between exporters and institutions
These discussions are particularly important for small and medium-sized businesses looking to expand beyond the domestic market.
🤝 Connecting Regional Businesses with Government Institutions
One of the key highlights of the event was the opportunity for exporters to engage directly with representatives of important government institutions, including Sri Lanka Customs and the Inland Revenue Department.
This direct communication provides exporters with an opportunity to raise practical issues, understand regulatory requirements, and seek solutions to challenges affecting their businesses.
Creating stronger connections between regional producers and government institutions can help develop a more efficient and transparent export environment.
🌱 Supporting Rural Producers and Agricultural Exporters
Sri Lanka’s regional economies have significant potential in agriculture and value-added production.
The North Western and North Central Provinces are home to many farmers, producers, manufacturers, and SMEs involved in products that can potentially reach international markets.
Strengthening export support at the regional level can help connect these businesses with:
Local Producers → Exporters → International Buyers → Global Markets
For agricultural exporters, better access to international markets can create new opportunities for products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, coconut products, spices, processed foods, and other Sri Lankan agricultural products.
💬 Minister Highlights Need for Practical Export Solutions
Addressing exporters at the forum, Minister Sunil Handunneththi emphasized the government's expectation of resolving issues faced by exporters as quickly as possible to support regional export growth.
The forum also provided an opportunity for exporters to present new ideas, proposals, and recommendations aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka's export sector.
Such direct discussions are important in developing policies and practical solutions that reflect the real challenges faced by businesses operating outside major commercial centres.
🇱🇰 Building a Stronger Sri Lankan Export Sector
Events such as the Regional Exporters Networking Forum can play an important role in developing a stronger and more inclusive export ecosystem.
When regional businesses receive better access to knowledge, government support, market information, finance, logistics, and international buyer connections, they can become more competitive in global markets.
For Sri Lanka's agricultural sector, this can also create opportunities to increase the value of locally produced goods and build stronger supply chains from farm to international market.
🌍 Solax Export: Connecting Sri Lankan Agriculture with Global Markets
At Solax Export, we believe that the future of Sri Lankan agriculture depends on creating stronger connections between local producers and international markets.
We continue to focus on supplying fresh Sri Lankan fruits, vegetables, leaves, herbs, and other agricultural products to overseas buyers while building reliable long-term export partnerships.
Regional export initiatives such as this forum are valuable because they encourage more Sri Lankan businesses to think globally and explore opportunities in international markets.
🇱🇰 From Regional Businesses to Global Markets
The 25 June 2026 Regional Exporter Forum in Chilaw highlights the importance of collaboration between exporters, government institutions, financial organizations, and industry stakeholders.
By strengthening regional export capabilities and addressing practical challenges, Sri Lanka can create more opportunities for local businesses to compete internationally and contribute to national export growth.
Solax Export is proud to be part of Sri Lanka’s growing export journey — connecting quality Sri Lankan products with buyers around the world. 🌍🍍
