Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with Sri Lanka Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (SLACMA) and Technobiz Lanka successfully conducted a two-day workshop on Dry Rubber Compound Technology and Plant Management. Held at the EDB headquarters on 20-21 December 2024, the event aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of technical professionals in the rubber manufacturing industry, including those serving the automotive sector.
The workshop was initiated on November 4, 2024 at the request of SLACMA and emphasized the importance of equipping industrialists with the latest developments in rubber compounding techniques, machinery and plant management practices.
Sri Lanka’s rubber manufacturing industry is known for its quality and innovation and plays an important role in the nation’s export economy. Tires account for 60% of exports, gloves 30% and other rubber products 10%. To maintain its competitiveness in the global market, the sector has prioritized investment in diversification, process modernization and research and development. Compliance with international standards and integration of cutting-edge technologies are also critical to sustain growth.
A focus of the workshop was the automotive component industry, which has been identified as having significant untapped export potential. Currently, many companies in this sector manufacture products such as tyres, wire harnesses, mud flats, rubber beads and washing machines for the domestic market. Strengthening global market linkages and diversifying product offerings were emphasized as essential strategies for expansion.
Key topics covered at the workshop included component materials for automotive components, natural and synthetic rubber applications, and best practices for compounding and compounding rubber. Technobiz Lanka, a consultancy established in 2020, collaborated closely with EDB to design and deliver a program tailored to industry needs.
Speaking at the inaugural session, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing initiatives to foster product excellence and align with global market trends.
Sri Lanka Rubber Products Exporters and Manufacturers Association (SLAMERP) Director General Dr. Sisira Rantunga and others participated in the event. Mr. Shamal Gunawardena, Chief Operating Officer of SEAT Sri Lanka representing SLACMA; Ms. Yugantha Piyadasa, Director of Technobiz Lanka, and Ms. Anoma Premathilaka, Additional Director General (Development) of EDB. The workshop was also attended by industrial professionals, industry participants and EDB officials.
