Egodage re-appointed EDB chief

Monday, 9 February 2015 00:15 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

As Sri Lanka’s latest provisional export data showed a YoY exports growth of 7%, the country moved the multinational corporate communications man who led its exports in Y2014 to re-champion its drive in the new era. “Under the guidance of President Maithripala Sirisena, we are expanding our exports and recovering the lost GSP plus facilities. I have no doubts that the new EDB Chairman Bandula Egodage will continue to serve the people of Sri Lanka on these targets,” said Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen, addressing the mini-installation event of Egodage as the Chairman and CEO of EDBon 6 February at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

EDBChairman and CEO Bandula Egodage(at right) accepts his letter of appointment from Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen on Friday

Egodage, the Corporate Affairs and Communication professional from one of the world’s largest food and beverage multinationals – Nestlé Lanka PLC – started his profession in national exports when he was initially appointed as the Chairman of the Export Development Board in June 2013. Egodagehas comprehensive experience in rural development (particularly in relation to dairy), exports (coconuts), external and public affairs, and local and international government and regulatory engagement. Bathiudeenadded: “I commend your efforts to increase Sri Lanka’s exports in 2014. I am also pleased to note that we have a total $11 b of 2014 annual provisional merchandise exports just released by EDB, which is a year-on-year increase of 7% compared to 2013.” Egodage stated: “I will strive my best to deliver on the exports goals of President Maithripala Sirisena and shall continue on our market and product diversification strategy.” Sri Lanka’s exports continued on its growth trend in 2014, and, as per the latest provisional merchandise only top line data, Sri Lanka’s exports for Y’14 totalled $11.079 b, rising YoY by 6.67%. These provisional numbers do not reflect the service exports values and therefore, actual exports numbers are expected to be much higher. Accordingly, apparels earned $4.9 b (rising by 9.26%) in 2014, industrial products at $8 b (rising by 6.1%), tea at $1.6 b (rising by 5.43%), agriculture products at $2.7 b (rising by 9%), and manufactured products at $2.4 b (rising by 9%).