New regulations likely to boost Sri Lankan apparel exports

Fibre2fashion.com - 08/08/2013

Sri Lanka’s apparel sector is likely to benefit from the new regulations issued by the Finance Ministry of the country.

The regulations cited as the Finance Act - Commercial Hub Regulation (CHR) No. 1 of 2013, will be applicable on all new established enterprises in the country.

Under the regulation, any new enterprise which is established or incorporated in Sri Lanka, where at least 65 percent of its total investment has been from foreign sources, shall be exempted from the application of Provisions of the Customs Ordinance (Chapter 235), the Exchange Control Act (Chapter 423), the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969, and acts referred to in schedule of the Principle Act as amended by the Finance Act, No.12 of 2013.

Third global Potash power switches Lanka’s agro-automotive ignition!

Asian Tribune - 08/08/2013

Rishad Baathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce-second from right) greets the visiting Vitaly Prima (New Delhi based Ambassador of Belarus to Sri Lanka-left) during bilateral trade discussions on 06 August at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Colombo.

Belarus, world’s third largest potash power and an industry driven economy with a GDP equal to Sri Lanka, is bullish on Sri Lanka’s trade, B2B and more importantly, in its industries. And Belarus is gearing towards partnering in the kick-start of Sri Lanka’s crucial agro-automotive industry.

“46% of our GDP is industries! We have carefully studied about Sri Lanka’s economic and industrial zones and please tell us more about your 26 industrial zones that aroused our interest!” declared an eager (HE) Vitaly Prima (the New Delhi based Ambassador of Belarus to Sri Lanka) on 06 August in Colombo.

Prima, who is currently leading a 14 member trade and business delegation to Sri Lanka, was addressing Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) at Minister Bathiudeen’s Industry and Commerce Ministry on 06 August during his delegation’s meeting with Minister Bathiudeen.

Committee to boost trade, investment with France

Lanka Business Today - 06-08/2013

The Sri Lanka – France Business Council (SLFBC) which functions under the aegis of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce held its 9th Annual General Meeting at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently. The Council was inaugurated on February 4, 2004 with a primary objective of promoting trade, investment, tourism and services between Sri Lanka and France and to promote mutual understanding and strengthen the relationships between Sri Lanka and France.

Christine Robichon, Ambassador of France and Patron of SLFBC graced the occasion as the chief guest.  Congratulating the newly appointed Committee she underlined that activities such as visit to France early this year demonstrated the usefulness of exchanging business delegations both ways. It was also mentioned that the partnership between the Embassy and Business Council went deeper with the successfully organised Symposium on Urban Development recently and the Embassy will continue to closely work with the Council in the future.

June exports record commendable growth

Sunday Observer - 04/08/2013

By Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

The country’s exports earnings for June recorded commendable growth. However, it is necessary to have the right balance between commodity and cost.

According to provisional Customs data, Sri Lanka is heading in the right direction despite challenges. Exports to our key markets the USA and EU, especially to USA have shown a satisfactory increase in June 2013, Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman and Chief Executive, Bandula Egodage told Sunday Observer Business. The problems in our key markets indicate that we should focus on diversifying our markets to other regions. The Asian region comprising China and India has registered substantial economic growth, he said. 

Lanka apparel exporters log on live to global Asycuda network

Asian Tribune - 01/08/2013

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce-centre) and Anura Siriwardena (Secretary, Ministry of Industry & Commerce-right) prepare to launch Sri Lanka’s log on to Asycuda World on 30 July at the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, Colombo.

Sri Lanka’s non-BoI apparel exporters have been now integrated to the crucial global network called Asycuda World (of UNCTAD). And having overcome the global recession, our apparel exports are now back on track-with good news. “Today, Sri Lanka’s apparel sector is entering into a new phase.

As a result of Sri Lanka’s non-BoI apparel manufacturers directly integrating into the online ‘Asycuda World’ system, we have now cleared a major bottleneck in our apparel exports” announced Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce on 30 July in Colombo. Minister Bathiudeen was addressing the implementation event of the Asycuda World export documentation system for non-BoI apparel exporters held 30 July at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Govt. grants tax incentives to port users, enterprises to boost exports

Daily Mirror - 31/07/2013

President Mahinda Rajapaksa who is also the country’s Finance Minister has declared Sri Lanka’s four main ports, Colombo, Hambantota, Trincomalee and Galle as ‘Free Ports’.

Additionally, the President declared the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, the Katunayake Export Processing Zone and Koggala Export Processing Zone as ‘Bonded Areas’.

The declaration entitles enterprises which are 65 percent foreign-owned and operating through the specified areas to wide tax exemptions including provisions under the Customs Ordinance and Exchange Control Act.

Despite drawbacks, exports up in June: Mr. Bandula Egodage

Lanka Business Today - 30/07/2013

Despite the drawbacks of the anticipated economic recovery in the European Union and the United States not taking place and also the unsettled conditions in the Middle East, there has been a commendable increase in the country’s export earnings in June this year, said Bandula Egodage, Chairman and Chief Executive of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board .

Addressing the 16th annual general meeting of the Exporters’ Association of Sri Lanka as the guest of honour, Egodage said that according to provisional Customs data, Sri Lanka’s export earnings had recorded a commendable increase in June this year and exports to our key markets USA and EU, especially to the USA, had also shown a satisfactory increase in the same month.

FACETS Sri Lanka to take centre stage for 23rd year

Lanka Business Today - 25/07/2013

FACETS Sri Lanka 2013, the International Gem and Jewellery Show that showcases hundreds of local and foreign exhibitors, will be held from August 29 to September 1 at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre. This year’s exhibition will comprise over 150 booths with a variety of gem and jewellery that include precious and semi-precious gems.

Organized by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA), FACETS Sri Lanka enables all gem and jewellery traders to display market collections and also help create awareness about the importance of the gem and jewellery industry in Sri Lanka. Additionally, the event will consist a seminar on 'Gem and Jewellery in Sri Lanka' conducted by an expert panel of local and International panelists.

FACETS Sri Lanka 2013 encompasses individual exhibitor pavilions from Myanmar, The National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and an SME pavilion from the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) . In addition, buyer delegations from USA, China, Russia and India will also be arriving. Stall holders from Singapore, Dubai, Myanmar and India will be participating at the event.

Sri Lanka InfoTech, firms in fast growth: industry chamber

Lanka Business Online - 25/07/2013

Sri Lanka's information technology and business process outsourcing sector has tripled exports and doubled the workforce in a little over five years, an industry official said.

The Sri Lanka Association of Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) say export revenues grew 182 percent to an estimated 600 million US dollars in 2013 from 213 million US dollars in 2007.
Total employment in the industry rose 100 percent to 67,000 in 2013 from 33,000 in 2007, the chamber's newly elected chairman Madu Ratnayake, from Virtusa, an information technology company said.

Morocco looking for more trade, JVS with Sri Lanka

Daily Mirror - 24/07/2013

Morocco has shown keen interest to boost trade and industrial cooperation with Sri Lanka.

“We need to expand our bilateral trade as well as our industrial cooperation. Investors from both countries can also enter into joint ventures in many sectors; we are strong in rubber and fishery -technologies that Sri Lanka can benefit from us considerably,” said Moroccan Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Larbi Reffouch during his recent meeting with Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen at the Export Development Board.

‘Start making use of benefits given to industries’- Minister Rishad Bathiudeen

The Island - 19/07/2013

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry & Commerce-centre) and Dr PB Jayasundara, (Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Planning-right) at the Forum on ‘Government Strategy for Industrial Development of Sri Lanka’ on 16 July held at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Colombo 3.

Industrialists should make the maximum use of the many facilities and benefits given to them by the government. "To develop our industry sector, the government has given many facilities to our industries and industrialists should start making maximum use of them. As the facilitators of industry development of Sri Lanka, we thank Dr PB Jayasundara, the Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Planning for directly meeting our industrialists on 16 July and successfully explaining and updating them on the government policies on industries" said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce on 16 July in Colombo, as quoted in a press communiqués issued by the ministry.

Presidential Export Awards - 2010 & 2011

Tunisia invites Lankan apparel suppliers for a joint venture

news.lk - 13/07/2013

Tunisia, the fifth phosphate producer in the world and a high end, high speed apparel supplier to European fashion world is showing a new opening for Lankan apparel supply chains. And Tunisia is agog over Sri Lanka’s growth rates. “We are almost taken up by your strong GDP growth rates that exceed 6%. I congratulate Sri Lanka for its spectacular growth. When you specially compare with the world economic growth rate, it’s such a leading rate” said Tarek Azouz, Ambassador of Tunisia to Sri Lanka on Wednesday (10).

Azouz was addressing Rishad Bathiudeen Minister of Industry & Commerce during his courtesy call on Minister Bathiudeen at EDB premises in Colombo. Also present along with Minister Bathiudeen were Anura Siriwardena Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Commerce and Bandula Egodage Chairman, Export Development Board and officials from the Department of Commerce.

Lankan business delegation in South Africa

Sunday Observer - 14/07/2013

The visit of a Sri Lankan business delegation to South Africa is a joint initiative of the Sri Lanka High Commission in Pretoria and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and Tea Board for the participation of Sri Lankan exporters at the SAITEX 2013 International Trade fair held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand from June 30 to July 2.

Leading Sri Lankan companies - DSI Tyres, Kelani Cables, Rathna Cinnamon Producers and Exporters, Queens Workwear, Nature's Secrets and Lalan Rubber - exhibited at the Sri Lanka pavilion while Basilur Tea Exporters and Sunshine Tea Exporters were at the Tea Board pavilion at the exhibition.

Lanka rejuvenates a crucial export setup

news.lk - 12/07/2013

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry & Commerce) addresses the ‘Soft launch of Expo 2014 and  appointment of members to the 26 Advisory Committees of the EDB’ event held at Kingsbury Hotel,  Colombo on 11 July.

“Today is an important day in Sri Lanka’s exports sector. We are appointing the Advisory Committees of Sri Lanka’s premier national exports organization, the EDB, and also launching the next international mega event in our exports calendar which is the ‘EXPO 2014” said Minister Bathiudeen, and added: “The global markets continue to show changing demand patterns, not only due to the recent global economic crisis but also as a result of long term fundamental changes in overall global consumption and shifting world market patterns. For example, 66% of the world market and population growth in the next century is expected to come from Africa."

Sri Lanka has opportunities in export food processing

Lanka Business Online

Sri Lanka has to build capacity opportunities to be a processed food exporter, taking a cue from developments that occurred in East Asian nations such as Thailand and Vietnam, an Australia-based economist said.

Prema-chandra Athukorale, professor of economics at Australian National University said in Thailand 23 percent of non-oil exports were processed foods and in Vietnam it was 27 percent and in Sri Lanka only 5.0 percent.
He said global food habits were changing and there were opportunities for Asia food exporters.

Govt. says new standards for Ceylon Cinnamon to boost Sri Lanka’s exports

Daily Mirror - 10/07/2013
By Ashwin Hemmathagama

New regulations were tabled in Parliament yesterday to standardize and improve the quality of the centuries old cinnamon industry in Sri Lanka by shifting the focus from popular export crops – tea, coconut, and rubber – to the value added cinnamon in the international market.

These regulations published in the Gazette Extraordinary 1813/15, prohibits the export of crushed or ground cinnamon, cinnamon organic, cinnamon quills cut, cinnamon in retail packs of 1kg or less, cinnamon featherings, and cinnamon chips, or cinnamon in any other form being exported without the SLS81:2010 certification specified for Ceylon cinnamon.

Gems and jewellery sector records strong growth

Sunday Observer - 07/07/2013
By Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

The country’s gem and jewellery industry continues its growth momentum with increased export revenue for the first six months of 2013.“We could observe a steady growth in export revenue generation. The growth momentum in the sector augurs well for related industries where its contribution to the national economy becoming more significant,” said Chairman and CEO National Gem and Jewellery Authority, Amitha Gamage.

“We are confident that if this growth momentum continues the gem, jewellery and diamond sector will reach $ one billion by 2016, he said.

Gem and jewellery exports increase

Daily News - 05/07/2013

• Gemstone export revenue tops Rs 1,635 million
• Jewellery exports record Rs 301 million

by Sumanachandra Ariyawansa

Eager buyers at the Singapore International gem and jewellery show which was opened at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel ,Singapore yesterday. The show will be held till July7

Sri Lanka’s gem, diamond and jewellery export sector has recorded an overall growth of more than 50 percent as at end of 2012. Revenue has increased significantly in comparison to the corresponding year’s figure of Rs.24,459 million in 2011.Therefore, Sri Lanka could be promoted as a gem and jewellery hub in the region, a senior official said.

The export of gemstones brought in revenue of Rs 1,635 million recording a 39 percent growth while jewellery exports generated revenue of Rs 301 million showing an impressive 121 percent growth. The service cutting industry showed signs of recovery by recording an Rs 26 million income with a 50 percent growth.

EDB to develop medical, health tourism

Daily News - 02/07/2013

The Export Development Board (EDB) has identified the potential growth of global Medical Tourism sector and capability of Sri Lankan medical and health tourism providers. EDB has requested assistance of International Trade Center (ITC) to develop this sector.

Accordingly ITC decided to have a case study in Sri Lanka health /medical tourism sector to access the capabilities of Sri Lanka in this sector and to benchmark Sri Lankan capabilities compared to the global Medical Tourism Industry.

Export Development Board of Sri Lanka gets new Board of Directors

EDB Board of Directors with Minister Bathiudeen

The new Board of Directors was appointed to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board on 27th June. Here Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen (fourth from right) and Secretary Anura Siriwardena (third from right) with the new appointees: From left: Rohantha Athukorala, Dr. Chameera C. Yapa Abeywardene, Nawaz Rajabdeen, Bandula Egodage (Chairman), Dr. Yousuf Maraikkar (Executive Director) and Sharass M. Zuaib.

Expo Pakistan 2013 opens in Sri Lanka

Business Recorder

The High Commission of Pakistan in Sri Lanka in association with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), formally launched The EXPO Pakistan 2013- Opportunities Unlimited on 24 June, 2013 in Colombo.

Minister for Industries and Commerce of Sri Lanka, Rishad Bathiuddin graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and jointly inaugurated the event, with the High Commissioner of Pakistan, Maj Gen Qasim Qureshi (Retd).

Chairman Export Development Board of Sri Lanka, Bandula Egodage, representatives of the main chambers of Sri Lanka i.e. Ceylon Chambers, National Chambers of Industries, Federation of Chambers of Commerce, Women Chamber of Sri Lanka and the members of Sri Lanka-Pakistan Business Council, along with major business houses such as Aitkens Spence, Ceylon Biscuit Limited, Akbar brothers, Calico, CW Mackie, Haleys, Macksons, Eswaran Brothers, Packages Lanka, Hands Logistics and Tunip Lanka attended the ceremony.

Indo-Lanka bilateral trade tops $ 4bn

Daily News - 27/06/2013

Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce welcomes Indian Commerce Secretary,
S. R. Rao on June 25 at the EDB premises in Colombo.

With bilateral trade crossing $ 4 billion, a new chapter has opened in Indo-Lanka trade ties with the first ever Joint Task Force (JTF) coming into play.

Strong signs of greater Indian market access for Lankan exporters and prompt resolution of trade barriers for them are the other developments in this new turn. “We are working to boost bilateral trade to $ 10 billion and as trade ties have improved greatly, the new understanding reached between both countries is a good sign for our bilateral trade future,” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka on June 25 in Colombo.

Japan to boost SL’s banana exports

news.lk

Japan’s ITOCHU Corporation will help further strengthen Japan-Sri Lanka trade ties under which investments are to be for expanding the island’s banana and tuna fishing industries and greater export opportunities will be provided for products.

Kouhei Watanebe, Chairman , the Japan - Sri Lanka Business Co-operation Councial and  advisor to ITOCHU corporation said this when he and the corporation’s representatives met Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa at the ministry office on Tuesday June 25.

Lanka, Pakistan trade to reach US$ one bn mark

Daily News - 26/06/2013
by H.D.H Senewiratne

Pakistan High Commissioner Maj Gen Qasim Qureshi at the event. 

The total value of trade volume between Sri Lanka and Pakistan could be increased to US$ one billion soon with the free trade agreement between both countries in place. At present total value of trade volume was US$ 460 million, Pakistan High Commissioner Maj Gen Qasim Qureshi said.

“The Pakistani new government has given concrete instructions for the forward march of foreign policy and is now crafting a strategy to engage in economic diplomacy with Sri Lanka to increase trade,” High Commissioner Qurshi said at a media conference to announce the 8th Expo 2013 in Pakistan. The event was to be held from of September 26 to 29 in Karachi.

Sri Lanka seeks unrestricted market access from India for Sri Lankan exports

Colombo Page

Sri Lanka has sought increased market access from India for Sri Lankan exports as a solution to balance the growing trade deficit with India.

Sri Lanka made this request during a discussion with an Indian delegation arrived in the country to discuss trade and investment.

Indian delegation led by S.R. Rao Commerce Secretary, Government of India arrived in Sri Lanka to discuss trade and investment matters with a Sri Lankan delegation led by Dr. P.B. Jayasundera Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Planning and Secretary, Ministry of Economic Development.

Lanka, Eu trade on the rise

Daily News - 24/06/2013

Minister Bathiudeen with Ambassador Bernard Savage

As bilateral trade volume closes in on the crucial $ 5Bn mark, historic dialogue between Sri Lanka and the European Union appears to bolster even further. “We look for better trade levels and also thank EU for its on-going support,” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce.

Minister Bathiudeen was addressing Ambassador Bernard Savage (Head of the Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives from the European Commission) on 20 June during Amb. Savage’s farewell courtesy call on Minister Bathiudeen at the EDB premises, Colombo.

China to open doors to Lanka’s apparel sector

The Sunday Times - 23/06/2013

By Bandula Sirimanna

 Sri Lanka’s apparel industry is to get a big boost as the world’s largest textile producer, China is exploring possibilities of opening its huge domestic market to the island’s garment exports, an industry heavyweight said.

Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) M.P. Tuly Cooray told the Business Times that their umbrella body is to enter into an agreement with the China National Garment Association to allow access for Sri Lankan apparel industrialists to penetrate the Chinese domestic market and also set up joint ventures to produce internationally branded products for overseas markets.

A high-powered, 20-member delegation from the Chinese association visited Sri Lanka recently and held preliminary discussions towards signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) enabling Chinese apparel makers and top global retailers to shift their orders to Sri Lanka due to the rising labour cost in that country, he revealed. He noted that they aim to get duty free access for apparel from

Processed food exports top $ 73 m

Sunday Observer - 23/06/2013

“In 2012, 26% of total food and beverages exports were processed foods, at $ 73.4 million.

Our overall processed food exports which stood at $ 67.1 million in 2010 rose to a strong $ 95 million in 2011,” said Minister of Industry and Commerce, Rishad Bathiudeen at the launch of the first International Food Safety and Compliance training sessions for Sri Lanka’s food exporters by Associate Professor of the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition of the Washington State University, Food Scientist, Dr. Barbara Rasco, were held at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

The pioneering session was organised by the Sri Lanka Food Processors’ Association and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce with the Spice Council and VEGA-FEG. The sessions were held from June 11 to June 21.

EXPORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD Ministry of Industry and Commerce Sri Lanka Partner Country Pavilion

Rishad, top Washington scientist start Lanka’s first Food Compliance

news.lk - 19/06/2013

For the first time in Sri Lanka’s exports history, on June 11, a renowned global food scientist began  to extensively train Lankan food exporters on the much needed international regulatory compliance rules.

Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka said that processed food has grown to become a key component of Sri Lanka’s overall annual food exports. In 2012, 26% of total food and beverages exports were processed foods, at $ 73.4 Mn. Sri Lanka's overall processed food exports which stood at $ 67.1 Mn in 2010 rose to a strong $ 95 Mn in 2011 added the Minister.

Sri Lanka makes their presence felt at the Paperworld 2013 exhibition held in Frankfurt

The Paperworld International Trade Fair is  a specialized fair for office supplies, school supplies, stationery and paper products held annually. It is an important venue for developing new contacts and maintaining existing business relationships for Sri Lankan exporters in the printing and stationery industry.  It is well recognized by buyers to source gifts and premium products including Office and School Supplies and Christmas Decorations. 

Paperworld 2013, held in January 2013 at Frankfurt, Germany which provided a great opportunity for exhibitors and trade visitors to study and analyze the position of the competitors and global market trends in products and  prices.  It also provided an insight into innovative and eco friendly products made of environmental friendly materials.

‘More Americans looking for Lankan spiced food’ – Dr Rasco

Daily News - 19/06/2013

For the first time in Sri Lanka’s exports history, a renowned global food scientist began on June 11 to extensively train Lankan food exporters on the much needed international regulatory compliance rules. And processed food has grown to become a key component of Sri Lanka’s overall annual food exports.

“In 2012, 26% of total food and beverages exports were processed foods, at $ 73.4 mn. Our overall processed food exports which stood at $ 67.1 mn in 2010 rose to a strong $ 95 mn in 2011,” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka on June 11 in Colombo. Minister Bathiudeen was addressing the launch event of fist International Food Safety and Compliance Training session by globally renowned Food Scientist Dr. Barbara Rasco, Associate Professor of the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition of the Washington State University.

Sri Lanka Economic Summit from July 9-11

Daily News - 08/06/2013

The 14th annual Sri Lanka Economic Summit which scheduled to be held from July 9-11, 2013 in Colombo will have one of its sessions discussing about Sri Lanka's export strategy.

The Government policy framework has targeted to raise the rate of growth in exports to double that of GDP growth, but exports as a % of GDP have halved from year 2000 to 2012. The share of exports of Sri Lanka as a percentage of world exports has also declined over the years to reach 0.06% by 2011. The basket of merchandise exports from Sri Lanka as well as our exports markets have remained largely unchanged over the last few decades. The foregoing situation and change in the global economic scenario, with Asia gaining ground over the West, require us to rethink our export strategy given the importance of exports to a small economy targeting to achieve sustained high economic growth in the future.

Sri Lanka cinnamon exporters required to adhere to specifications

Colombo Page News Desk - 15/06/2013

Senior Minister for International Monetary Co-operation Dr. Sarath Amunugama has proposed to make it mandatory for Sri Lanka's cinnamon exporters to adhere to the specifications for Sri Lanka standard for exporting of cinnamon.

The proposed measure is aimed at preventing the export of low quality cinnamon and enhancing the production of cinnamon in the country sustaining the livelihood of more than 350,000 families engaged in the industry, the government says.

Ornamental fish export revenue surpasses $ 7 m

Sunday Observer - 16/06/2013
By Lalin Fernandopulle

The demand for ornamental fish has increased with its revenue surpassing $ 7 million, said a major ornamental fish exporter at an event to record Sri Lanka winning 30 awards at the recently concluded Aquarama 2013 ornamental fish competition in Singapore.

He said that revenue from ornamental fish exports last year was $ 7.52 million and added that the industry targets a higher revenue this year with more fish breeders showing a keen interest to enter the ornamental fish export market.“The ornamental fish industry has a bright future. The lack of new species is a major hindrance to boost exports,” a fish breeder said.Ornamental fish breeders have called upon the government to support the industry and encourage more fish breeders to create a vibrant export market. Fish breeders said that adding new varieties with more export incentives for breeders will help enhance export revenue.

Sri Lanka exports 2% of world’s ornamental fish supply

DailyFT

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce) greets a Lankan award winner of the AQUARAMA 2013 on 12 June at the EDB Premises, Colombo as Sujata Weerakoone (DG- EDB-far left),Bandula Egodage (Chairman-EDB, second from left) and Yousuf Maraikkar (Executive Director-EDB-fourth from left) look on .

Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka Rishad Bathiudeen yesterday revealed that Sri Lanka have more than 2% share of the global ornamental fish market which is around US$ 340 million. “We are also now recognised as one of the best ornamental fish suppliers to the international market.”

Bathiudeen was addressing the press briefing held at the Export Development Board (EDB) to announce Sri Lanka’s strong achievements at the AQUARAMA 2013 event in Singapore.
More than 300 competitors from 10 countries, submitting 1,350 entries, were taking part in the highly competitive AQUARAMA 2013 international ornamental fishery event held in Singapore from 28 May to 2 June.

Seventeen Sri Lankan firms, facilitated and sponsored by EDB, competing in the event won 30 awards, which was symbolically re-awarded by Minister Bathiudeen with his praise, yesterday.

Sri Lanka, Austria talks on development projects

Daily News - 13/06/2013  

External Affairs Minister Professor G L Peiris meets Austria's Vice Chancellor (Deputy Prime Minster) and European and International Affairs Minister Dr Michael Spindelegge

The growth of bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Austria, despite the economic recession in Europe and the steady increase in direct foreign investment from Austria augur well for the future of relations between Sri Lanka and Austria, External Affairs Minister Professor G L Peiris said.

He said this during a meeting on Tuesday with Austria's Vice Chancellor (Deputy Prime Minster) and European and International Affairs Minister Dr Michael Spindelegge at the Foreign Ministry in Vienna.

The ministers noted that Austrian companies are showing increasing interest in bidding for major infrastructure development projects, while others have already undertaken construction projects in Sri Lanka, including the Greater Colombo sewerage system rehabilitation project.

Nestlé Lanka VP takes over as EDB Chairman

DailyFT

Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce hands over the Letter of Appointment to Bandula Egodage, (Left) the new Chairman/CEO of Export Development Board.

A corporate affairs and communications professional from one of the world’s largest food and beverage multinationals has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Export Development Board (EDB) of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen yesterday appointed Nestlé Lanka PLC Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communication Bandula Egodage to the helm of EDB.
He will continue in his permanent position at Nestle Lanka. The new appointment follows the resignation of Janaka Ratnayake late last year.

The European Seafood Exposition (ESE) - 2013

Sri Lanka Stall at the European Seafood Exposition

The European Seafood Exposition (ESE) is the world's largest seafood fair. Attracting buyers and sellers from over 140 countries around the world and featuring the stands of over 1,600 exhibitors. The European Seafood Exposition is the global can't-miss fair for the seafood industry.

Since the ESE is the most prominent fair for the seafood sector and also considering the Europe as Sri Lanka’s key market, Sri Lanka has been participating regularly at this fair since 2007.  The previous participations have brought tangible outcome for Sri Lanka’s fisheries export sector.

Sri Lanka: Promising Business Destination

-Asian Tribune-

Prof. Peiris Addresses Trade and Investment Event in Beijing

External Affairs Minister Professor G.L. Peiris was the principal speaker at the event “Sri Lanka: Promising Business Destination” organized in Beijing on Tuesday at the Intercontinental Hotel by the Embassy of Sri Lanka and the Export Development Board.

Professor Peiris explained to the leading Chinese investors and representatives of the corporate sector of China present at the event, the main advantages which Sri Lanka is able to offer today, as a destination for investment and trade. Key officials of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade participated in the event. One of the salient features of this programme was the emphasis on matching arrangements between Sri Lankan and Chinese companies for the purpose of increasing volumes of trade between the two countries.

Ayurveda Expo 2013 from July 12-14

Sunday Observer (26/05/2013)

Ayurveda Expo 2013, the international indigenous healthcare exhibition organised by the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) will be held at the BMICH from July 12 -14.
The exhibition is held for the fourth consecutive time in Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Ministry of Indigenous Medicine, Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Export Development Board.
The objective of the exhibition is to showcase the potential of Sri Lanka's indigenous medical sector and its products and services for the tourism industry.
Ayurveda 2013 Steering Committee Chairman Thilak Godamanna said many Sri Lankan and Indian organisations engaged in indigenous medical product manufacturing and services have already reserved stalls.
He said delegations from Japan, India, Germany, South Africa and China (Shanghai) have confirmed participation in the exhibition.
A Symposium on South Asian Traditional Medicine will be held on July 13 at the same venue, where world-renowned professionals in the sector will make presentations on the latest research findings in the sector.

Release of handbook on the “India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement”

- Asian Tribune -

High Commissioner of India Ashok K. Kantha hands over a copy of "Handbook on the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement" to Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen at the Taj Samudra

A Handbook on the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement was released on 15 May 2013 by Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister for Industry and Commerce, Government of Sri Lanka and Ashok K. Kantha, High Commissioner of India. The handbook was brought out by the High Commission of India in collaboration with the Institute of Policy Studies, Sri Lanka.

Mr. Anura Sirwardena, Secretary, Ministry of Industry & Commerce, Mr. Saman Kelegama, Executive Director, Institute of Policy Studies, Mr. Vish Govindaswamy, President, India-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ISLCCI), Dr. Indrajith Coomaraswamy, Director, Pathfinder Foundation, Mr. Sunil G. Wijesinha, President, National Chamber of Commerce, Mr. P. Kumaran, Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Manish, Economic & Commercial Counsellor, members of Indo-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry, representatives of various business houses, India CEOs, officials from government departments and media representatives participated in the event

Sri Lanka sees 10.3% industry surge in 2012

Daily News - 2013-05-20

Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, unveils the CNCI Gold Achiever Award at Cinnamon Grand as Kumara Kandalama, SG/CEO of CNCI, and Preethi Jayawardena, Chairman, CNCI look on Picture by Saliya Rupasinghe

As Sri Lanka experienced a 10.3 % industry surge in 2012, Sri Lanka’s historic industry growth rate appeared to exceed the growth rate of its own GDP.

“Lankan historic industry sector growth has surpassed even the national GDP growth rate-in that, the industry ‘value addition’ to the GDP in 2012, is 62 times to that of 1960 when CNCI began at only US $ 269 million. Our industrial exports too, increased by 28 %, in 2011,” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce addressing the CNCI Achiever Awards 2013 launch event held at the Cinnamon Grand on May14 .

International Food & Drink Exhibition - 2013

17^th to 20^th March 2013 - London

by Udeni Wijekoon - EDB

Maliban Biscuit pvt Ltd exhibits their products

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) with the assistance of the Sri Lanka High Commission in the UK proposes to organized  a Sri Lanka pavilion for the first time at the International Food & Drink Exhibition held in the United Kingdom from 17th to 20th March 2013.

International Conference on Economic Development

Disna Mudalige - Daily News 2013-05-15

An International Conference on Economic Development, Joint Venture Partnerships and Eco Tourism has been organized by the Business and Professional Women Sri Lanka from August 10 to 12 at the BMICH.

Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa, Water Supply and Drainage Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa, Investment Promotion Minister Lashman Yapa Abeywardena and Board of Investment (BOI) Chairman Dr Lakshman Jayaweera are to participate in this event as chief guests.

The main objective of the conference is to form joint venture partnerships in business, commerce, infrastructure development, tourism and information technology.

The conference facilitates business to business opportunities amongst the participants in coordination with the BOI, Export Development Board, Sri Lanka Tourist Board and other relevant authorities.

'Get Sri Lankaned' campaign in Mumbai

By Leanne Zara Rodrigues | Mumbai

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has announced that its second mega joint promotional campaign, 'Get Sri Lankaned', will be held in Mumbai from May 17-20, 2013. The campaign, which aims to showcase Sri Lanka as a tourist destination for Indians, was first held in Bengaluru earlier this year. The announcement was made by Bashwara Gunarathna, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism, along with Muthu Sivalingam, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Government of Sri Lanka and Sanath Jayasuriya, Member of Parliament, Sri Lanka and Brand Ambassador of Sri Lanka Tourism, at a press conference. The campaign is scheduled to cross over to Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi and Ahmedabad in the next few months. Get Sri Lankaned will begin with a press conference and will be followed by 'Sri Lanka Night', which will see participation from Indian film and sports celebrities, and will include a Sri Lankan Cultural Show and food festival.

Gulfood 2013 - Dubai, UAE

25th - 28th February 2013

Sri Lanka Pavilion at Gulfood-2013

 The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Consulate General in Dubai in UAE organized  Sri Lanka pavilion at the Gulfood 2013 International Fair  held on Dubai, UAE from 25th - 28th February 2013.

The Gulfood International Fair is one of the most established events in the world for buyers to source food & beverage products. The EDB has identified Gulfood Trade Fair held annually   in   UAE to promote Sri Lankan food and beverage products. It caters not only to the UAE but also to the Middle Eastern and African markets as a whole.

Footwear & Leather Fair 2013

8th to 10th   February 2013 – BMICH, Colombo
Final Press Release

“Footwear & Leather Fair 2013”   organized by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in Association  with the Ministry of Industry & Commerce  , Industrial Development Board (IDB), Sri Lanka Footwear & Leather Products Manufacturers  Association  concluded successfully on the  10th February 2013 at the Sirimavo  Bandaranaike Memorial  Exhibition centre at BMICH.   This was the 5th of its kind, previous fairs been held in year 2007, 2009, 2010 & 2012.

SL Embassy in Dubai to host road show

(Daily News - 2013/05/08)

by Shirajiv Sirimane in UAE 



Ambassador of Sri Lanka in UAE, Dr. Mahinda Balasuriya with Head of Marketing, Airport Aviation Services of Sri Lanka and new Chief Executive Officer, Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, Derick Karunaratne at the ATM, Sri Lanka stand. Picture by Shirajiv Sirimane

The Sri Lankan Embassy in Dubai would organize a mega three day Road Show in UAE in September to promote tourism and draw more investments to Sri Lanka. The new Ambassador of Sri Lanka in UAE, Dr Mahinda Balasuriya, speaking to Daily News Business said that this Road Show would be conducted in three main states in UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

 He said that he had already contacted the main Chamber in UAE and they had pledged support for the event.