The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with Verité Research, successfully conducted its second training programme, “Leveraging Trade Data for Export Success,” for women-led exporters in Kandy on 20th February 2026. This initiative was part of the EDB's Women Entrepreneurship Development Programme.
Following the successful programme held in Colombo, the Kandy session was organised to extend this valuable learning opportunity to women Led Exporters in the Central Province and surrounding regions. The programme brought together women led exporters and entrepreneurs with export potential from diverse sectors. It provided them with practical knowledge to better understand global trade dynamics, analyse market trends, and make strategic, data-driven decisions to expand their businesses internationally.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions, group discussions, and hands on exercises designed to strengthen their understanding of export data, product market matching, identification of emerging opportunities, and assessment of competitive landscapes. Participants gained hands-on experience with trade data platforms and analytical tools, empowering them to make informed decisions and successfully diversify their markets.
The sessions were conducted by the International Economics Programme team of Verité Research. The programme was facilitated by Mr. Mathisha Arangala, Lead Economist, who provided in-depth insights into interpreting global trade statistics and translating data into practical export strategies. He was joined by Research Analyst Ms. Bulani Weerawadane, who guided participants through practical exercises and demonstrated how to utilise trade data tools effectively to identify promising international markets.
This initiative reflects the EDB’s continued commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs across the country by equipping them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and confidence to access international markets. By decentralising such specialised training programmes to regional centres like Kandy, the EDB aims to ensure inclusive participation and strengthen the export readiness of women led businesses beyond the Western Province.
The programme further underscores the importance of collaboration between research institutions and industry stakeholders in delivering meaningful capacity-building interventions. Through such partnerships, the EDB continues to support women-led businesses in enhancing their competitiveness, fostering sustainable growth, and contributing more effectively to Sri Lanka’s global trade performance.
