EDB, IFC and EU strengthen export readiness of Eastern SMEs through the latest Provincial ExpoNavigator Program, equipping export-potential businesses in the Eastern Province with the knowledge, technical support and market access needed to compete internationally.
EDB, IFC and EU strengthen export readiness of Eastern SMEs through ExpoNavigator
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Union (EU), conducted the seventh Provincial ExpoNavigator Program under the Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative (SLEEI) 2026 on 9 and 10 June 2026 in Batticaloa.
The programme was implemented under the EU’s regional initiative, Accelerating Climate Smart and Inclusive Infrastructure in South Asia (ACSIIS), which seeks to improve the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by enhancing their export readiness and supporting their entry into international markets.
Held to coincide with International MSME Day 2026, the two-day event attracted nearly 100 entrepreneurs from the Eastern Province with strong export potential. Participants took part in awareness sessions, technical consultations and one-on-one business advisory services designed to prepare their businesses for global trade opportunities.
As a flagship programme under the Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative, ExpoNavigator has now expanded its reach to seven provinces, including the Western, North-Western, Northern, Southern, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and Eastern Provinces. The initiative focuses on identifying promising SMEs and connecting them with technical expertise, financial support and institutional assistance required to expand into export markets.
The EDB, IFC and EU strengthen export readiness of Eastern SMEs initiative comes at a time when the Eastern Province remains significantly underrepresented in Sri Lanka’s export sector despite possessing considerable economic potential. The region currently accounts for less than one percent of the country’s registered exporters, even though it contributes around five percent of national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Officials believe there is substantial opportunity to increase the province’s participation in exports, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, food processing, coconut-based products, spices, manufacturing and other value-added industries. Strengthening export-oriented enterprises is also seen as an important step toward achieving the province’s target of contributing eight percent to Sri Lanka’s GDP by 2030.
During the programme, SMEs participated in interactive workshops covering key aspects of export readiness, including product development, branding, packaging, quality assurance, certification requirements, market intelligence and access to finance. A dedicated Business Clinic also enabled entrepreneurs to engage directly with experts from the EDB and partner organisations to receive tailored guidance based on their business needs.
The consultations further helped identify high-potential enterprises that will receive continued support under the Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative, ensuring that businesses with strong export prospects benefit from long-term mentoring and capacity-building.
By delivering export development services directly to regional businesses, the ExpoNavigator Programme is helping build a more diversified and resilient export economy while creating greater opportunities for entrepreneurs outside the Western Province to participate in global value chains.
The EDB, IFC and EU strengthen export readiness of Eastern SMEs programme reflects the growing collaboration between public institutions and international development partners to strengthen Sri Lanka’s export sector. By improving SME capabilities and expanding regional participation in international trade, the initiative aims to create sustainable economic growth and increase the country’s export competitiveness.