The Sri Lanka digital exports sector is set to expand in Europe as the Export Development Board (EDB) and Germany’s Import Promotion Desk (IPD) signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen market access and SME competitiveness.
Sri Lanka digital exports to gain from EDB–IPD partnership promoting EU market access
The Sri Lanka digital exports sector will benefit from a new partnership between the Export Development Board (EDB) and Germany’s Import Promotion Desk (IPD), aimed at boosting access to European markets. The agreement will promote digital products and services as well as natural ingredients and processed foods, while building long-term opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Julia Bellinghausen, Head of IPD, said the initiative would provide sustainable market access for Sri Lankan companies and reinforce EDB’s role as a leading export promotion agency. Highlighting the country’s dynamic SMEs and export potential, she visited Colombo from September 8–12 to assess opportunities for collaboration.
The cooperation will introduce B2B matchmaking sessions, sourcing missions and increased participation in top international trade fairs. Stefan Schutze Tobar, IPD Germany’s Sector Lead for Digital Products and Services, visited IT service providers in Sri Lanka to evaluate their export capacity and identify firms for inclusion in IPD’s matchmaking programme, which connects IT SMEs with European buyers.
EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe said the partnership has already delivered valuable market linkages and knowledge transfer since its start in 2019, particularly in natural ingredients. The expansion into digital products and services, he added, will open new pathways for Sri Lankan SMEs in Europe while consolidating existing strengths.
Through the new agreement, IPD will extend advisory services, provide coaching on EU market entry, sustainability and compliance, and strengthen EDB’s institutional capacity. Previous joint initiatives have already helped Sri Lankan SMEs meet EU standards, improve documentation and secure connections with European buyers.
During her visit, Bellinghausen also met Sarah Hasselbarth, Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Sri Lanka, to discuss SME development. Over the past five years, Sri Lankan exporters of essential oils, spices, coconut products and processed foods have been introduced to buyers at major trade fairs such as Biofach and Anuga.
Officials said the cooperation marks a significant step in diversifying Sri Lanka’s export portfolio. By combining digital services with established sectors, the agreement is expected to position the Sri Lanka digital exports industry for long-term growth in the competitive European market.