As part of the UK-Sri Lanka trade mission under the SheTrades Commonwealth programme, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the International Trade Center (ITC) jointly organized a series of factory visits.
With 59 factory visits from 2nd to 6th December, the program brought buyers from the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce to Sri Lanka and highlighted women-led businesses across Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kurunegala, Kandy , Matale, Galle, Matara, Jaffna, Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi.
The program gave participating women entrepreneurs unparalleled opportunities to connect with UK buyers, showcase their products and explore new export markets, particularly in the UK. Representing sectors such as apparel and agri-food, these businesses demonstrate the quality, innovation and sustainability of women-led enterprises in Sri Lanka.
Visiting buyers interacted with manufacturing facilities and entrepreneurs, gaining insight into their operations and the unique value proposition of their products. These interactions fostered potential trade partnerships and highlighted the export readiness of Sri Lankan businesses.
Mr. Tayub Amjad of Zouk Group Limited appreciated the success of the operation. “The connections made with Sri Lankan women entrepreneurs were both fruitful and inspiring. Their commitment to quality and sustainability aligns well with the expectations of UK buyers.
The mission was characterized by a focus on inclusion, with visits to businesses in both urban centers and rural areas. Stops in Jaffna, Mullative and Kilinochchi, enterprises in the spotlight in the Northern Province, demonstrate the untapped export potential of women entrepreneurs in the region.
The SheTrades Commonwealth program continues to work towards economic empowerment by creating fair opportunities for women to access international markets.
Commenting on the initiative, Mangala Wijesinghe, President and CEO of EDB said, “This mission reflects our commitment to empower women entrepreneurs and position them as key contributors to Sri Lanka’s export economy. Partnerships with ITC and respected UK Chambers of Commerce have further strengthened the bridge between Sri Lanka and the UK.
Dr. Naseer Awan, Chairman, Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, UK. Appreciated the success of the operation. “Exploring new suppliers is essential for UK businesses. It supports the CSR projects that all businesses should be adopting, while reducing the risk of political or geological issues facing existing suppliers. Companies in developing countries can increase their business products to today’s informed consumers.”
