The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), established in 1979 under the Sri Lanka Export Development Act No. 40, is the apex government agency responsible for promoting and facilitating exports from Sri Lanka. Operating under the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Food Security, the EDB serves as the strategic arm of the Sri Lankan government in developing, diversifying, and expanding the country's export sector.
Core Mandate and Services
The EDB offers a comprehensive suite of services aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Sri Lankan exporters and increasing their global competitiveness. Its core services include:
- Market Research & Feasibility Studies: Tailored market intelligence reports and sectoral studies for exporters.
- Trade Promotion: Organizing Sri Lanka’s participation in international trade fairs, B2B matchmaking sessions, and inward buyer missions.
- Export Capacity Building: Training programs, export certification facilitation, and advisory services.
- eMarketplace Platform: A digital portal enabling local exporters to showcase products and connect with global buyers.
These services are available to a diverse set of industries including apparel, tea, spices, ICT/BPM, food & beverages, gems & jewellery, rubber products, and more.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
The EDB's unique strength lies in its ability to act as a one-stop trade facilitator that combines policy advocacy, institutional support, and real-time market linkage under one roof. The organization leads the implementation of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Sri Lanka and has been instrumental in boosting SME exporter participation and digital export readiness through structured support frameworks.
Target Markets and Export Facilitation
The EDB supports exporters targeting key markets such as the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, India, China, and the Middle East. Its buyer matchmaking and trade fair participation initiatives have led to increased visibility for Sri Lankan products in international markets.
Key milestones include:
- Facilitated export value exceeding USD 13.1 billion in 2023, with a growth focus in ICT and food sectors.
- Over 1,000 exporters assisted annually through capacity-building and promotional programs.
- Over 10 virtual buyer-seller meetings conducted in 2023 under COVID-19 contingency measures.
Capabilities and Infrastructure
The EDB operates from its headquarters at No. 42 Nawam Mawatha, Colombo-02, supported by sector-specific advisory units and trade officers stationed globally. The organization maintains the Sri Lanka Business Portal (srilankabusiness.com), which functions as an export directory and promotional hub.
Certifications and Governance
As a government statutory body, the EDB ensures adherence to national and international trade regulations. It operates under a structured governance model with oversight from a Board of Management appointed by the Minister of Trade.
Leadership
The current Chairman and CEO, Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, leads a team of policy experts, trade analysts, and sector specialists to execute the board’s strategic vision.
Recognitions and Achievements
- Launched Sri Lanka’s first national eMarketplace for exporters.
- Led the country's trade delegation to over 25 global expos and fairs between 2021 and 2023.
- Partnered with UNIDO, ITC, and World Bank on multiple export development programs.
Educational and Promotional Content
The EDB runs a YouTube channel featuring the Export Training Webinar Series, which provides exporters with education on compliance, digital marketing, packaging, and more.
Stakeholder Testimonials
Feedback from trade participants and export councils commends the EDB for its proactive support, especially in niche sectors like wellness, organic products, and fintech services. Exporters often attribute their global breakthroughs to EDB-facilitated market linkages and training.
With over four decades of consistent service to Sri Lanka’s export economy, the EDB continues to play a critical role in shaping and supporting the nation's international trade ambitions.
