The Export Development Board (EDB) recently hosted a networking session at its head office, focusing on new and potential exporters within Sri Lanka’s tea and coconut sectors.

During the session, Mr. Indika Perera, Cluster Executive Director of Wichy Plantation (Pvt) Ltd, shared his insights and experiences under the topic “Real-life examples of entering and succeeding in challenging markets.”

Mr. Chathuranga Wickramarathna, a Research Officer from the Market Development and Research Division of the Coconut Development Authority, offered guidance to participants on “Exporter registration procedures and requirements of the Coconut Development Authority,” as well as regulatory compliance for coconut exports.

Mr. Adrian Gabriel, Senior Tea Taster & General Manager (Tea) of Akbar Brothers (Pvt) Ltd, provided practical strategies for establishing long-term international business partnerships, discussing “Building and maintaining relationships with foreign buyers.”

Highlighting new market opportunities, Mr. Tishan De Silva, Assistant Director of the Promotion Division at the Sri Lanka Tea Board, emphasized the importance of branding in the global tea trade. His presentation, titled “Emerging markets for Ceylon Tea and leveraging the logo,” offered valuable insights.

Mr. Suranjith Swaris, Country Director for Sri Lanka at Inextricable Group UK, Past President of SLIM, Business and Marketing Consultant, and visiting lecturer at the University of Moratuwa, shared his expertise on “Brand differentiation and market differentiation strategies in competitive global markets.”

This program provided emerging exporters with the opportunity to connect with industry stakeholders, gain market insights, and explore export opportunities in Sri Lanka’s two main agricultural export sectors. Approximately one hundred small and medium-scale exporters participated in the event. The program was organized by the Trade Information and Trade Facilitation Division.