A workshop titled “Exporting from Sri Lanka to Japan: Guide and Good Practices” was successfully held on 24 February at Hotel NH Collection, Colombo. Organized through collaboration between the International Trade Centre (ITC) Geneva, Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), and Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), the event was funded by the Japanese Government to educate SMEs and exporters on effectively accessing the Japanese market.
The workshop focused on key export sectors, including Apparel, Tea, Spices, and Coconut-based products, providing 35 participants with essential knowledge on Japan’s trade environment, regulatory requirements, and market trends. EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe and FCCISL President Keerthi Gunawardane emphasized the need for strategic engagement with Japan, while Japanese Embassy Minister/Deputy Chief of Mission Naoaki Kamoshida highlighted the role of trade diplomacy.
Presentations covered an overview of the Japanese market, strategies for Sri Lankan exporters, and real-world insights from leading Sri Lankan export companies such as Bio Foods Ltd., JK Garments Ltd., and Arava Group. Japanese trade experts from JETRO, JICA, and Mitsui & Co. provided guidance on cross-border requirements and importer expectations.
The event concluded with a networking session, fostering collaborations between Sri Lankan businesses and Japanese trade representatives. Future workshops are expected to continue supporting local exporters in strengthening their presence in Japan.