Friday Mar 13, 2026
Friday Mar 13, 2026
Friday, 13 March 2026 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Export Development Board (EDB) recently convened a high-level meeting with key industry stakeholders to discuss the challenges faced by exporters shipping goods to the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
The meeting focused on identifying measures that the EDB, together with other relevant institutions, could introduce to support exporters and ensure the smooth continuation of export operations during the current period of geopolitical uncertainty.
Representatives from several major export sector associations participated in the discussions, including those representing tea, spices, fruits and vegetables, food and beverage products, and coconut-based industries. The session provided a platform for exporters to raise concerns about potential disruptions to trade flows and logistics caused by the volatile regional situation.
Participants emphasised the importance of a unified approach between the public and private sectors to protect Sri Lanka’s export industry during the uncertain period.
Through the consultation, the EDB sought to establish a framework for continued engagement and support to help exporters manage emerging challenges. The concerns and recommendations raised at the meeting are also expected to be presented at the upcoming meeting of the Export Development Council of Ministers (EDCM) for further consideration and policy action.
Among the private sector organisations that took part were the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, the Spices and Allied Products Producers and Traders Association, and the Lanka Fruit & Vegetable Producers Processors and Exporters Association.
Government institutions also participated in the dialogue, including the Sri Lanka Tea Board and the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, highlighting the need for a coordinated response to safeguard export performance.
In addition, logistics stakeholders such as the Sri Lanka Freight Forwarders Association and the Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents joined the discussions, focusing on potential supply chain disruptions and strategies to maintain the movement of goods to Middle Eastern markets.
