Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Export Development Board (EDB), together with the Director General and a team of senior officials, recently met with Hon. Hanif Yusoof the Governor of the Western Province at the Governor’s Office in Battaramulla to discuss strategies for enhancing Sri Lanka’s export performance, attracting investments, and promoting the upcoming Sri Lanka Expo scheduled to be held from 14th to 17th January 2027.
The meeting commenced with a comprehensive presentation by the EDB Chairman on the current performance of Sri Lanka’s export sector, emerging opportunities, and the strategic priorities outlined under the National Export Development Plan (NEDP). The Chairman highlighted the NEDP’s vision of transforming Sri Lanka into a competitive export-driven economy through the development of priority sectors, market diversification, innovation, and investment promotion.
Discussions focused on the importance of expanding export-oriented industries, diversifying export products and services, and increasing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.
A key area of discussion was the development of Sri Lanka as a regional logistics hub. The EDB leadership highlighted the country’s strategic geographic location along major international shipping routes and emphasized the significant opportunities available to position Sri Lanka as a leading logistics and trade facilitation center in the region. The Governor expressed keen interest in these initiatives and acknowledged the important role that efficient logistics services play in driving export growth and investment attraction.
The EDB team briefed the Governor on preparations for Sri Lanka Expo, the country’s flagship international trade promotion event. Special attention was given to the Investment Forum, which is expected to be one of the landmark events of the Expo. The forum will provide a unique platform for international investors, business leaders, and key stakeholders to explore investment opportunities across a range of sectors in Sri Lanka.
Recognizing the significance of Sri Lanka Expo in promoting the country’s trade and investment potential, the Governor pledged his support to the initiative. He agreed to assist in disseminating information about the Expo through relevant networks and to encourage potential investors and business representatives to participate in the event.
The Governor further emphasized the importance of fostering stronger collaboration between national and provincial stakeholders to achieve the country’s economic development objectives. He noted that attracting quality investments and expanding export opportunities are critical to accelerating economic growth and generating employment opportunities.
The EDB officials expressed their appreciation for the Governor’s positive response and commitment to supporting the promotion of Sri Lanka Expo. They reiterated that the event will serve as a vital platform to showcase Sri Lanka’s export capabilities, investment opportunities, and logistics advantages to an international audience.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to working together to enhance Sri Lanka’s export sector, attract greater foreign investment, and position the country as a dynamic and competitive trade and investment destination in the region. Through collaborative efforts such as Sri Lanka Expo and its Investment Forum, Sri Lanka aims to strengthen global business partnerships and unlock new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
