The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) recently co-organized a series of factory visits as part of the UK-Sri Lanka Trade Mission under the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Program.
From 2-6 December, 59 factory visits were conducted, bringing buyers from the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce to Sri Lanka. The initiative spotlighted women-led businesses across Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kurunegala, Kandy, Matale, Galle, Matara, Jaffna, Mullaitivu, and Kilinochchi.
This program provided a unique platform for participating women entrepreneurs to connect with UK buyers, showcase their products, and explore export opportunities in the UK. Representing sectors such as apparel and agri-food, these businesses highlighted the quality, innovation, and sustainability of Sri Lanka’s women-led enterprises.
Fostering Global Connections
Visiting buyers engaged with production facilities and entrepreneurs, gaining valuable insights into operations and the distinct value propositions of Sri Lankan products. These interactions paved the way for potential trade partnerships and underscored the export readiness of the country’s businesses.
Tayub Amjad from Zouk Group Ltd. praised the mission’s impact, stating, “Engaging with Sri Lankan women entrepreneurs was both productive and inspiring. Their dedication to quality and sustainability aligns with the expectations of UK buyers.”
Empowering Regional Entrepreneurs
The mission emphasized inclusivity by featuring visits to businesses in urban and rural regions. Stops in Jaffna, Mullaitivu, and Kilinochchi showcased the untapped export potential of the Northern Province’s women entrepreneurs.
Through the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Program, economic empowerment is being achieved by creating equitable access for women to participate in international markets.
Strategic Collaborations for Growth
EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe commented on the initiative, saying, “This mission demonstrates our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and positioning them as key contributors to Sri Lanka’s export economy. Our collaboration with ITC and esteemed UK Chambers of Commerce has strengthened ties between Sri Lanka and the UK.”
Nasir Awan, President of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, added, “Exploring new suppliers is vital for UK businesses. It mitigates risks from geopolitical challenges while supporting CSR projects and providing ethical, sustainable products to conscious consumers.”
Building a Resilient Export Sector
The UK-Sri Lanka Trade Mission has laid a strong foundation for future collaborations while amplifying opportunities for women entrepreneurs. By focusing on capacity building and global partnerships, the initiative reinforces Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient export sector.
This mission marks a significant milestone in integrating women entrepreneurs into global trade, driving lasting economic growth and empowerment.