The Export Development Board (EDB) recently conducted a specialized awareness session for potential exporters in the handicrafts, giftware, lifestyle, and toy sectors. The event was organized by the Trade Facilitation and Trade Information Division of the EDB.
The comprehensive program brought together 100 Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) entrepreneurs from these sectors, who demonstrated strong potential to enter export markets. The session was designed to enhance their knowledge and build their capacity to become successful exporters.
Welcoming the participants, Mrs. Kumudinie Mudalige, Additional Director General – Development (Acting) of the EDB, highlighted the global appeal of Sri Lankan Handicrafts, Giftware, Lifestyle, and Toy products. “These products carry a unique story, rooted in tradition yet full of potential for modern global markets. This makes the sector an important contributor not only to export growth but also to strengthening Sri Lanka's image as a nation of artistry and innovation,” she stated.
A key highlight of the session was the experience-sharing segment presented by Mr. S.H.B. Karunaratne, Managing Director of Art Decoration International (Pvt) Ltd, who shared valuable insights from his industry experience and success story.
The program also featured four specialized technical sessions focusing on critical aspects of the export business. Ms. Mangala Madhuwanthi, Product Officer of the EDB's Industrial Products Division, provided an overview of the sector and emerging export opportunities. Mr Budhika Arachchige, Manager sales and Marketing of Printcare (Pvt) Ltd presented insights into advanced packaging solutions, while Mr. Lahiru Wipulaguna, Assistant Director of the EDB's Information Technology Division, discussed IT solutions and e-marketing strategies to enhance global competitiveness. The final session was conducted by Mr. Asanka Perera, General Manager of Global Consolidators Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, who highlighted the benefits of consolidated freight services for exporters.
The awareness program covered essential areas to help potential exporters in the handicrafts, giftware, lifestyle, and toy sectors transition into successful export businesses. This initiative reflects the EDB's continued commitment to supporting SME entrepreneurs and expanding Sri Lanka's export base in value-added manufacturing sectors.
Ms. Manoja Dissanayake, Director of the Industrial Products Division, and Dr. S.U. Rathnasekera, Director of the Trade Facilitation & Trade Information Division, along with other EDB officials, also participated in the event.
