Monday Feb 16, 2026
Monday Feb 16, 2026
Thursday, 14 July 2011 00:21 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
By Roshenka de Mel
The Export Development Board (EDB) yesterday launched the official logo with tag line ‘Expo 2012, partnering with the hub of Asia and website for the Expo 2012 international export exhibition scheduled for 28-30 March 2012.
Highlighting encouraging export growths, EDB Chairman Janaka Ratnayake stated, “The export market has experienced a growth of almost 42% over the last five months and Sri Lanka is at the right place at the right time. Expo 2012 is the first large scale international exhibition Sri Lanka has hosted since 1997 and it will showcase our export products and services to the world, attract upto 1000 foreign buyers, generate foreign direct investments and also promote Sri Lanka’s tourism.”
Ratnayake emphasised that matured EU and US markets generated a growth of 52% in 2010 and continue to drive demand. However in time there will be a gradual shift from traditional to new emerging markets in China, India, Indonesia and Singapore. Commenting on export sectors that are thriving, Ratnayake stated that the textiles sector generates the most exports; however, solid pneumatic tyre exports are also thriving rapidly. He explained, “40% of the world’s pneumatic and solid tyres are made in Sri Lanka.” Exports of pneumatic and retreaded rubber tyres and tubes generated US$ 221.74 million from January - May 2011. Another export sector that is fast developing is security and foreign currency printing.
The website (www.srilankaexpo.com) was launched with a new logo under the tagline ‘Expo 2012, partnering with the hub of Asia.’ The Expo 2012 website will serve as the official directory for international trade and is intended to create a promotional gateway to the export business community in Sri Lanka.
Aside from attracting serious buyers from across the globe, five to six Ministry delegations and high profile trade delegates from US, EU, UAE, SAARC regions, China and Africa are also expected to attend.
Acknowledging that 20% of the US$ 15 billion export target for 2015 will be generated by SME’s, Ratnayake explained that Expo 2012 will provide opportunities for SME’s as well as medium scale businesses and large scale businesses to all grow into larger enterprises. He explained that the exhibition will create a platform for direct orders from foreign buyers and will provide 300 Sri Lankan exporters with the opportunity to grow from immediate orders and foreign investment. Explaining the way forward en route to Expo 2012, Ratnayake stated, “Our exports must cater to niche markets at a premium price and through value adding, we must expand trade. The exhibition is being funded by the public and private sectors and costs are manageable at present. Sri Lanka’s export community is an engine of growth for the country and needs to be supported.”
