UK-Sri Lanka Trade Mission boosts women entrepreneurs’ export potential

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and International Trade Centre (ITC) co-organised a series of factory visits as part of the UK-Sri Lanka Trade Mission, under the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme. 

Fifty-nine factory visits were held from December 2 to 6. The initiative brought buyers from the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce to Sri Lanka, highlighting women-led businesses across Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kurunegala, Kandy, Matale, Galle, Matara, Jaffna, Mulative and Kilinochchi.

This programme provided the participating women entrepreneurs with unparalleled opportunities to connect with the UK buyers, showcase their products and explore new export markets, particularly in the UK. Representing sectors such as apparel and agri-food, these businesses demonstrated the quality, innovation and sustainability of Sri Lanka’s women-led enterprises.

Connecting businesses across borders

The visiting buyers engaged with production facilities and entrepreneurs, gaining insights into their operations and the unique value propositions of their products. These interactions fostered potential trade partnerships and highlighted the export readiness of Sri Lankan businesses.

Tayub Amjad from Zouk Group Ltd commended the mission’s success. 

“The engagement with Sri Lankan women entrepreneurs was both productive and inspiring. Their dedication to quality and sustainability aligns well with the expectations of the UK buyers.”

Empowering regional entrepreneurs

A highlight of the mission was its focus on inclusivity, with visits to businesses in both urban centres and rural regions. Stops in Jaffna, Mulative and Kilinochchi, spotlighted enterprises in the Northern province, showcasing the untapped export potential of the region’s women entrepreneurs.

The SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme continues to drive economic empowerment by creating equitable opportunities for women to access international markets.

Strategic collaborations for export growth

Speaking on the initiative, EDB Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mangala Wijesinghe stated, “This mission reflects our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and positioning them as key contributors to Sri Lanka’s export economy. Partnering with ITC and esteemed UK Chambers of Commerce has further strengthened the bridge between Sri Lanka and the UK.”

UK Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce President Dr. Nasir Awan commended the mission’s success. 

“It is very important for the UK businesses to explore new suppliers. This mitigates the risk from the political or geological problems that the existing suppliers may face while also supporting the CSR projects that all businesses should be following. It also helps the companies in developing countries to scale up their businesses and provides ethical and sustainable products to today’s conscious consumers.” 

Paving way for a resilient export sector

The UK-Sri Lanka Trade Mission has not only amplified opportunities for women entrepreneurs but also set a strong foundation for future collaborations. By focusing on capacity building and fostering global partnerships, the initiative underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to achieving a sustainable, inclusive and resilient export sector.

This mission is a significant step forward in integrating women entrepreneurs into global trade, paving the way for lasting economic growth and empowerment.