Exports in Sri Lanka

FACETS 24th edition ends on a high note

Daily FT - 13/09/2014

The 24th edition of FACETS Sri Lanka 2014, the international gem and jewellery exhibition organised by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) ended in a high note. The event was very successful with over 150 stall holders including individual exhibitor pavilions from The National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and an SME pavilion from the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB).
In addition, over 100 international buyer delegations attended the expo, across China, India, Myanmar, Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, USA, Russia and Germany. Stall holders from Singapore, Dubai, Myanmar, China and India also participated at the event.

EDB in new push for Japanese IT market

Daily FT - 13/09/2014

As Sri Lanka’s IT exports topped $ 719 m, a business journalist from world’s fourth largest selling newspaper was taken by surprise by the country’s inroads into one of the most demanding niche software markets in the world.
“I am really surprised by your ability in our platforms. This is news!” exclaimed Yuichi Kiriyama, business journalist of Japanese language Mainichi Shimbun, the world’s fourth largest selling newspaper.

Yuichi was addressing a special gathering of the software interest group for the Japanese market held on 5 September in Colombo facilitated by the EDB.

First ever business delegation from Finland due in December

Daily FT - 10/09/2014

Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen and Finland’s Roving Ambassador for Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka Rauli Suikkanen hold discussions in Colombo last week

The first-ever high level trade and business delegation to Sri Lanka from the world’s ICT leader is now mulled for early December.
“I have been able to encourage my Government to renew trade cooperation with Sri Lanka. I have been highly encouraged by the rapid development seen in Sri Lanka. The first-ever Finnish business and investment delegation is now being scheduled for the first week of December 2014,” announced Finland’s Roving Ambassador for Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka Rauli Suikkanen on 4 September in Colombo.

Suikkanen was addressing Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen during a courtesy call on Bathiudeen. Also present was EDB Chairman and CEO Bandula Egodage.

The International Colored Gem Stones Congress(ICA), the sole global think-tank which serves to benefit the colored gemstone industries have chosen Sri Lanka as its host country for its 16th congress to be held in May 16th - 19th, 2015 in Colombo at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel.

This is the second time that Sri Lanka will be hosting the prestigious ICA event which prides itself for uniting various segments of the colored gem trade. The theme for the event is `Sapphire and MORE`. A `Facets Congress Gem Show` will also be held from May 15th to 18th at same venue.

Spice exports up 40% in 2013

Sunday Observer - 07/09/2014

Sri Lanka's spice exports rose 40 percent to $329 million in 2013 from $ 236 million in 2012. Spice export revenue was US$ 115 million in 2009, Export Development Board EDB statistics revealed.

As Sri Lanka's spice exports leaped by 40%, a new program was launched by the EDB last week to boost exports of the perennial crop. Meanwhile, a leading packaging consultant said that the Sri Lankan export packaging sector is now maturing with more ‘high barrier package’ visibility.

“The key factor is how to market our spices. Our spices are traditionally exported in bulk form. Sri Lanka now encourages value added exports and discourages raw exports.

Lanka-China FTA electrifies $8B global apparel giant to action

Asian Tribune - 06/09/2014

Mark Green (Executive Vice President of Global Supply Chain of New York’s PVH Corporation-left) meets Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka-right) in Colombo on 14 August.

The forthcoming Lanka-China FTA has electrified no less than a $8B global apparel giant who is also the world’s largest shirt maker. “We are very excited about the forthcoming Lanka-China FTA; having duty free market access to China is very important for us as an apparel sourcing firm and the benefits are great.

This is even more important for us since we have considerable income from Asia-30% of our turnover from Calvin Klein brand alone originates from Asia!” said Mark Green, the Executive Vice President of Global Supply Chain of New York’s PVH Corporation on 14 August in Colombo.

Lanka export acceleration push begins

Asian Tribune - 08/09/2004

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce-second from left) briefs Anton Said (Chief of Export Strategy, ITC-second from right) about Sri Lanka’s export landscape on 13 August in Colombo as Anura Siriwardene (Secretary-Ministry of Industry and Commerce-far left) Bandula Egodage (Chairman & CEO, EDB-third from left) and Pablo Lo Moro (Senior Advisor-Export Strategy, ITC-seated far right) look on.

Exports, being the lifeline of Sri Lankan economy, is a national priority. The urgency of exports accelerating strategy is such that it could kick-start even before its full design cycle is over. Meanwhile, Brand Sri Lanka packs hidden potentials that could be leveraged for national export growth.

“At the end of the day the buck lands at somebody’s desk. Who is ultimately responsible? We can start implementing the export acceleration strategy while it is being designed and before it’s totally finalised. We may not need to wait until it is fully endorsed” voiced a determined Anton Said (Chief of Export Strategy, ITC) on 13 August in Colombo.

Lanka vying for $3B rubber sector

Asian Tribune - 07-09-2014

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka–second from right) and HE Azmi Zainuddin (Malaysian High Commissioner to Colombo-second from left) join to inaugurate Global Rubber Conference 2014 (to be held in October in Colombo) on 28 August in Colombo as Dr Abdul Aziz (Secretary General of International Rubber Research & Development Board-far left) and Bandula Egodage (Chairman & CEO-EDB-far right) look on.

As the first ever Global Rubber Confab to be held in Sri Lanka is announced on 28 August, the country positioned its historic rubber industry to be a $ 3B sector. And a top global rubber body voiced that rubber prices would recover ‘before very long’.

“We are now aiming at an ambitious $3B rubber industry in the coming decade. To arrive at this $3B in a viable manner, it is essential for us to support our rubber farmers. I believe it is time for a long term development plan for this sector. The 2013 rubber exports of $960 Mn is a 100% increase compared to rubber exports five years ago” said a keen Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 29 August in Colombo.

Sri Lanka's bilateral trade with Israel surges 178% since trade pact in 2007

The Colombo Page - 08/09/2014

Sri Lanka's bilateral trade with Israel has surged by 178% since a trade pact signed in 2007, signaling even closer B2B links between the two countries, a press release issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce said.

"We have a history of bilateral trade and business cooperation with the State of Israel. This time we took about 40 leading businessmen to Israel from Sri Lanka and completed a successful Business Forum", Sarath Wijesinghe, Sri Lanka's Ambassador in Israel said Friday at a business review meeting in Colombo.

‘Our trade future looks good!’: Seychelles

Daily FT - 03/09/2014

New air-connectivity boosts exports, transit travel: Seychelles
'Proposing first Lanka-Seychelles Jt. Committee!’: Rishad
'Accepted! You also get COMESA market!’: Minister Laporte

Enhanced trade cooperation cemented by a new Joint Trade Committee will open Sri Lanka’s anticipated trade volumes with Africa said Seychelles on 27 August. Lankan exports to Africa’s top blue economy as well as transit passenger volumes to Colombo is now on the increase as a result of recent air connectivity.

“The prospective Joint Trade Committee between Sri Lanka and Seychelles will be Sri Lanka’s platform for accessing the huge African market. Almost all the issues regarding quarantine of certain exports have now been resolved and all requirements met! As a result we are now receiving loads of more Lankan fresh fruits and vegetables than before,” said an upbeat Minister for Finance, Trade and Investment of Seychelles Pierre Laporte in Colombo.

EDB tackles value addition and packaging for spices

Daily FT - 03/09/2014

Spice exports have recorded a 40% increase, with the key challenge being how to market Sri Lanka’s products to gain better returns, an official said yesterday.
Sri Lanka’s total spice exports in 2013 stood at $ 329 million, rising by 40% from 2012’s $ 236 million. Last year’s spice exports revenue were also a leap of more than 100% from 2009’s $ 115 million, Export Development Board Chairman Bandula Egodage told companies at the first national packaging awareness seminar.

Record number of SMEs to participate in FACETS Sri Lanka 2014

Daily FT - 01/09/2014

Over 50 small and medium enterprises will take part in FACETS Sri Lanka 2014, the international gem and jewellery exhibition, according to the organising committee. Organised by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA), this year’s event held for its 24th year, will be held from 4-7 September at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre.

Govt. keen to triple rubber industry to $ 3 b

Lanka News Papers - 31/08/2014

Sri Lanka is on its way to making the rubber industry a $ 3 billion sector, Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen stated following the announcement that the 4th Global Rubber Conference (GRC) and Exhibition will be held in Colombo from 27 to 30 October.

The GRC, formerly held as the Asean Rubber Conference until 2010, has been held in Cambodia (2011), Vietnam (2012) and Indonesia (2013) so far, while Sri Lanka will be hosting it for the first time with over 700 trade visitors and 28 countries set to participate.

The event, co-organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board and Confexhub, will be themed Sowing the Seeds of Sustainable Future . The Ministry of Plantation Industries and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce have extended their support for the event as well.

Sri Lanka-China FTA deal during Chinese President’s visit next month

Sunday Times - 31-08-2014

Sri Lanka will be launching its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China making the biggest leap forward in relations between the two countries in more than 60 years, during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to the island next month, official sources revealed.

Mr. Xi will be accompanied by a 150-member top level delegation including senior officials, billionaire businessmen industrialists and investors.

The Chinese leader will become the first President to visit Sri Lanka since former leader Li Xiannian in 1986. His visit assumes significance in strengthening ties between the two countries, with China investing heavily in the island nation, the sources said. The joint feasibility study on the FTA has been finalised and negotiations on formulating the agreement including the negative list are underway between officials of the departments of commerce between the two countries, a senior government official told Business Times.

Rubber Industry Facing Great Challenges

The Sunday Leader - 31/08/2014
By Roy Silva

The rubber industry is facing great challenges from an increasingly competitive global market, said Dr Abdul Aziz, Secretary General of International Rubber Research and Development Board (IRRDB) and also the Chairman of Confexhub Malaysia on Thursday in Colombo.

Announcing the Global Rubber Conference to be held in Sri Lanka in October, he said that in the past few years, many other commodities had surpassed the rubber industry and therefore, it was imperative for the rubber industry to gear up and meet those challenges. The 4th Global Rubber Conference (GRC 2014), one of the world’s leading conferences on rubber sector, is to be held in Colombo from October 27 to 30.

World Export Development Forum 2014 to be held in Africa for the first time

The forum is slated to take place in Kigali, Rwanda on 16-17 September, under the theme SMEs: Creating jobs through trade.

The World Export Development Forum (WEDF), a flagship event of the International Trade Centre (ITC), is bringing its 14th edition to Africa, with a dedicated focus on entrepreneurs.

Dedicated to supporting trade-led inclusive and sustainable development, the forum will be held in Africa for the first time, and is slated to take place in Kigali, Rwanda on 16-17 September, under the theme SMEs: Creating jobs through trade.

Besides, participants at the 14th World Export Development Forum (WEDF) will have the opportunity to hear expert views from entrepreneurs, policymakers and representatives of trade support institutions on how both new technology and traditional sectors can help promote growth.

Lankan biz throng first Seychelles forum in Colombo

Asian Tribune - 27/08/2014

Pierre Laporte (Minister for Finance, Trade and Investment of Seychelles-second from right) gifts a ‘Coco de mer’ sea coconut prevalent only in Seychelles to Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka-second from left) on 27 August in Colombo as Bandula Egodage (Chairman & CEO-EDB-far left) and Waven William (Seychelles Ambassador to Sri Lanka-far right) look on.

No less than 130 reps from 125 Lankan firms thronged the first bilateral B2B call between Sri Lanka and Seychelles biz ever to be held in Colombo on 27 August. “Today’s event can be a stepping stone for more bilateral trade between both countries, which is an urgent need at this moment. The total bilateral trade has been low at only $3.7 Mn. Today’s initiative therefore is a major step in this direction” said Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 27 August in Colombo.

High level ‘Nam push for Lanka investments

Asian Tribune - 25/08/2014

The Government of Vietnam, while unravelling Lankan investment volumes within its borders, signalled on 22 August of its own investment push towards Sri Lanka-and coming from its high levels. “Already 10 Sri Lankan investment projects are in Vietnam. Vietnam investors and businesses too are eager to go out of the country and invest.

I hope the Government of Sri Lanka would create an enabling environment for Vietnamese business and investors” said a keen Pham Binh Minh (the Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam) on 21 August in Hanoi.

Historic Lanka-Vietnam trade link established in Hanoi

Asian Tribune - 22/08/2014

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce–right) appreciates the souvenir gift from the Minister of Trade and Industry of the Vietnam Vu Huy Hoang (centre) at the Head Quarters of Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam, in Hanoi.

The first ever Sri Lanka Vietnam official trade mechanism went live in Hanoi on 21 August. And the new mechanism, according to the Vietnamese side, is the practical way for bigger trade cooperation in the form of an Agreement.

“Today’s new beginning will open many new opportunities for both countries. I am fully convinced that setting up of a Joint Working Group (JWG) or Joint Trade Sub Committee, would lay a concrete foundation to enhance the existing bilateral trade and economic relations new heights. My Ministry would closely monitor the progress” said n Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) at the Head Quarters of Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam, Hanoi on 21 August.

Lanka export acceleration push begins

Daily FT - 20/08/2014

Be passionate about your exports!: ITC Geneva
Leverage Lanka’s global brand ranking for exports: Rishad
Strategy making for 2015-2020 acceleration begins
EDB in WTO benchmark: Rishad
Happy about ITC support: EDB’s Egodage

Exports, the lifeline of Sri Lankan economy, are a national priority. The urgency of the exports accelerating strategy is such that it could kick-start even before its full design cycle is over. Meanwhile, brand Sri Lanka packs hidden potentials that could be leveraged for national export growth.

First hand Syrian account reveals Lanka a destination beyond Gulf

Asian Tribune - 18/08/2014

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce–left) discusses with Dr Mhd. Moussallam Al Droubi (CEO of Al Droubi Group and the Hon Consul of Sri Lanka in Damascus, Syria) in Colombo on 13 August.

For the first time, Syrian investors' view on trading and investing in Sri Lanka has been revealed in a first-hand account on 13 August in Colombo. And the cash rich Syrians want to set up active projects first, rather than sending a stream of hot funds.

“As countries, Gulf economies are richer than Syria but when it comes to individual countries’ private capital volumes, everyone knows that Syrians are way ahead and much more liquid than private capital in Gulf region. The main issue now is that the Syrian industrial community is on the lookout for an investment hub due to the current unrest in Syria. There are a few keen big investors who are studying Sri Lanka closely” said an upbeat Dr Mhd. Moussallam Al Droubi (CEO of Al Droubi Group and the Hon Consul of Sri Lanka in Damascus, Syria) on 13 August in Colombo.

Finished rubber goods export up

Sunday Observer - 17/08/2014

In 2013, Sri Lanka's natural rubber sheet exports stood at US $71.6 million, while the export of finished rubber goods stood at US $ 887 million, compared to US $ 856 million in 2012, an increase of 4%, said Industry and Commerce Minister Rishard Bathiudeen at the inauguration of the second edition of Sri Lanka PLAST and the first edition of RUBEXPO at the BMICH last week.

“Our plastic exports stand at US $60.11 million compared to US $ 57 million in 2012, an increase of 5%. We encourage value addition for rubber exports. These two sectors have been identified as thrust industries and are expected to contribute significantly to national economic growth and help meet our planned 7.8% GDP target this year,” he said.“Our company exports rubber products and slippers to India in fairly large quantities.

India has the most balanced trade with Sri Lanka: Sinha

Daily FT - 15/08/2014

When it comes to global trade parities of the world’s 10th largest economy, the most balanced trade it conducts is with Sri Lanka, India claimed yesterday.

“India has the most balanced trade with Sri Lanka among its major trade partners. Both sides are involved in continuing discussions to take economic engagement to the next level,” said Indian High Commi-ssioner in Sri Lanka Y.K. Sinha yesterday.

Sinha was addressing the singular inauguration event of two expos on 14 August – the second edition of Sri Lanka Plast and the first edition of RUBEXPO at the BMICH. Also taking part were Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa, Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen, Ministry of Industry and Commerce Secretary Anura Siriwardene, EDB CEO Bandula Egodage and EDB DG Sujatha Weerakoone.

Lanka in first mutual recognition agreement trade call with biggest global supplier

Daily FT - 13/08/2014

‘Important development!: Exporters
'MRA can help boost FTA biz’: Rishad
'Agreed!’: Deputy Indian HC Bagchi
Trade under ISFTA jumps by 40%!
Indo-Lanka overall bilateral trade at $ 3.63 b

As bilateral free trade leaped by a huge 40%, Sri Lanka’s biggest supplier in the world nodded in agreement on 7 August that a wider and consistent trade harmonisation push could remove existing barriers in one go -and amplify bilateral business.

“Sri Lankan businesses that invested in India have done very well. I agree with you that a wider Mutual Recognition Agreement will be useful to increase bilateral trade. I also agree that the lack of unified market standards across various states in India could be an issue for Lankan exporters,” said a keen Arindam Bagchi (Deputy High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka) on 7 August in Colombo.
Deputy High Commissioner Bagchi was addressing Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka Rishad Bathiudeen on 7 August during the first courtesy call he made on Minister Bathiudeen. Deputy High Commissioner Bagchi previously served in such stations as Beirut, New York, Spain and was finally functioning as the Director of Indian Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) before he arrived in Colombo. Joining Minister Bathiudeen on 7 August were Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka DG R.D.S. Kumararatne and EDB Chairman/CEO Bandula Egodage.

Branding would give Lankan rubber boost

Daily News - 14/08/2014
Vishmi Wijeratne

The Plastic and Rubber Institute of Sri Lanka CEO Forum recently mooted ideas for improving plastic and rubber industries in Sri Lanka.

While quality adding has been long discussed topic of improvement, it was discussed that branding Sri Lankan rubber will give Sri Lankan rubber a significant boost.

Chairman and CEO of the Export Development Board of Sri Lanka, Bandula Egodage, who attended the event said rubber is one of the chief exports in Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's rank in the contribution of rubber exported globally is 32% . However, he also said Sri Lanka's solid tyres rank at the first place in exports, which is a clear indication that there is a market for value added goods rather than just the raw form.

Exhibitions will put Sri Lanka on the map swiftly: Swaminathan

Daily FT - 13/08/2014

Plastics and Rubber Institute of Sri Lanka (PRISL), together with Enterprising Fair India will conduct the 2nd edition of SRILANKA PLAST – a Plastics Expo and the 1st Edition of RUBEXPO – a Rubber Expo on 14, 15 and 16 August 2014 at BMICH, Colombo. Below are the excerpts of an interview conducted with Enterprising Fairs India Ltd Managing Director B. Swaminathan in light of the exhibition.

Top Asia-Pac fishery man prepping Colombo for rare int’l confab

Asian Tribune - 13/08/2014

Bandula Egodage (Chairman/CEO-EDB-second from right) meets Dr Abdul Basir Kunhimohammed (Director General- INFOFISH-seated, with red tie, second from left) as Sujatha Weerakoone (DG-EDB-far right) joins the discussion on 12 August at EDB.

Sri Lanka will feature a rare international confab this November –and many top global fishery experts and exporters will gather together in one place for the first time in South Asia, as announced on 12 August. “First ever International Ornamental Fish Conference to be held in Sri Lanka is taking place this November with EDB’s support. We thank Malaysia based INFOFISH for affording this opportunity to Sri Lanka” said an upbeat Bandula Egodage (Chairman/CEO-EDB) on 12 August at EDB.

Chairman Egodage was meeting Dr Abdul Basir Kunhimohammed (Director General- INFOFISH) on 12 August at EDB. Visiting INFOFISH DG Dr Kunhimohammed is currently in Colombo to hold preparatory meetings with Lankan stakeholders for the first ever INFOFISH Global Conference to be held in Sri Lanka titled “Sri Lankan International Ornamental Fish Conference” scheduled on 10-11 November at Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo.

The North Western Provincial office of the SLEDB, successfully conducted the awareness seminar/workshop on Ornamental Fish for the export Market on 12th August 2014 in the auditorium of District Secretariat-Kurunegala with the participation of 110 export oriented Ornamental Fish farmers in North Western & North Central Provinces. The programme was organized by the NWP-EDB with the assistance of National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA).

The main objective of conducting this programme is to increase the capacity of export oriented ornamental fish farmers in the region by way of enhancing Technical/Market awareness and facilitating linkages between farmers and exporters in order to develop consolidated supply base of quality ornamental fish for exports.

Korean Push for First Ever Lanka Regional Apparel Training

Source: Department of Government Information, Sri Lanka

As apparel revenues topped $2.4 Bn in ’14 1H, in a new development, Korea has extended its support to enhance industry capacity in North-and Sri Lanka’s crucial apparel industry training efforts have now expanded to regions for the first time.

“We are receiving today’s apparel technical support thanks to Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Government of Korea. Thanks to KOICA, our apparel training efforts have entered the regions” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka and Vanni MP on Sunday (04) in Mannar.

World’s first official true cinnamon pass now live

Daily Finance Times - 11/08/2014

EDB clears historic cinnamon upgrade effort
'Pure Ceylon Cinnamon TM live in 4 markets: Rishad
13 Lankan firms pass first global certification

In its efforts to expand the global reach of its historic spice, Sri Lanka has begun equipping its exporters with international licensing as insisted by global market hotspots. As a result, the historic assemblage of Lankan exporter firms officially sanctioned to use the internationally accredited ‘Pure Ceylon Cinnamon Global Certification’ was born in Colombo last week.

“During the last five years, Pure Ceylon Cinnamon exports have shown an increasing trend due to surging demand for it in global markets. The other good news is that the EDB has completed registration of this trade mark in the key markets of USA, EU, Peru and Colombia,” said Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen.

Trade talks for first TA with surging ‘Nam on the cards

Asian Tribune - 08/08/2014

As YoY bilateral trade jumped by a huge 88%, possibility of a first ever official trade agreement with one of the most discerning Asian suppliers to Sri Lanka has edged closer to reality on 07 August. “Our record exports today at $130 Bn was strongly supported by the seven FTAs that we entered into. An FTA with Sri Lanka can boost bilateral trade specially for Sri Lankan exporters. We should consider at least a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA)” said an upbeat (HE) Ton Sinh Thanh (the outgoing Ambassador Plenipotentiary & Extraordinary of Viet Nam to Sri Lanka) on 07 June in Colombo.

Ambassador Thanh was addressing Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 07 August in Colombo during his farewell courtesy call on Minister Bathiudeen. Ambassador Thanh, who served a successful three year stint in Colombo is scheduled for New Delhi next. Joining Minister Bathiudeen on 07 August were RDS Kumararatne (DG-Department of Commerce) and Bandula Egodage (Chairman/CEO-EDB).

FACETS Sri Lanka 2014, the prestigious International Gem and Jewellery Show that showcases hundreds of local and foreign exhibitors, will be held from 4th - 7th September 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 semiprecious gems.

SL, Vietnam two way trade grown by 100 percent

Daily News - 07/08/2014
By Rasika Somarathna

Relations between Vietnam and Sri Lanka are fast developing, and two way trade between the countries has grown by nearly 100 per cent during the last three years, Vietnamese Ambassador to Colombo Ton Sinh Thanh said.

He added, the two-way trade over the past three years has been increasing by around 30 per cent per year, the highest rate among Vietnam trade with other South Asian countries. He made thise revelation at the opening of the first ever Sri Lanka Vietnam business centre in Kelaniya, a venture promoted by the APL Group of Companies. Ambassador Thanh identified the new centre as an important landmark in the economic relations between the two countries. Highlighting the rapid growth of economic relations between the two countries the Ambassador said ; "in the first half of this year our bilateral trade volume reached US $109 million, almost equal to the volume of the whole year 2011. The Ambassador predicted that the total trade volume between the two countries this year will surpass US $200 million.

IT/BPM export projections at $850 mln for 2014 – report

The Sunday Times - 03/08/2014

IT workforce to reach 82,850 by end 2014

IT exports set at $850 million by end 2014; 2022 target – $5 billion

63 per cent of the workforce has graduate or post-graduate level qualifications. Bachelor’s degree standard entry level qualification for recruitment in many job categories

Approx. 2.5 million square feet of Grade A leasable office space currently being offered as commercial office space

Additional 765,000 square feet of office space under construction; ready by end 2015

6 million square feet of office space in the construction pipeline

IT park being built on 17 acres of land at Katunayake

Local IT and business process management (BPM) exports have grown “significantly” from US$213 million in 2007 to an estimated $720 million in 2013 and a projected $850 million in 2014; according to the recently issued “Sri Lankan IT-BPM Industry Review 2014″ report, which was commissioned by private sector body SLASSCOM, and prepared by PriceWaterhouseCoopers Sri Lanka.
Further, the report also added that “(total) employment grew from 33,700 in 2007 to an estimated 75,100 employees in 2013, and the number of companies in the industry grew from 170 in 2007 to over 220 in 2013″. At the same time, the report also projects employment for 2014 as reaching 82,850.

Geographical Indication for Ceylon cinnamon soon

Daily Mirror - 04/08/2014

In response to a longstanding cry by the spices and allied exporters, action is now underway to obtain the Geographical Indication (GI) for Ceylon cinnamon and other allied products of which the geographical origin and its possessed qualities will be identified with a unique sign in the international market place.

Among other local authorities, the World Trade Organization (WTO), one of the protectors of GIs at international level has already agreed to assist Sri Lanka in providing technical support and a common front for commodities has expressed its willingness to fund the project. “The ministry and the National Intellectual Property office of Sri Lanka are directly involved with this operation with the Export Development Board (EDB) with the assistance of Spices and Allied Products Producers’ and Traders’ Association (SAPPTA),” said the Industry and Commerce Ministry Secretary Anura Siriwardena addressing SAPPTA’s 30th annual general meeting.

PRISL Enterprising Fairs CEO Forum for plastics and rubber industry ends on high note

Daily FT - 04/08/2014

SRI LANKA PLAST and RUBEXPO launches at CEO Forum

PRISL (The Plastics & Rubber Institute of Sri Lanka) together with Enterprising Fairs India Ltd (EFIPL) organised a CEO Forum on at The Kingsbury Hotel on 1 August, to encourage the plastics and rubber industries to take ‘exports’ as a growth strategy. Experts from the Government, EDB and India addressed this elite forum. The event saw over a 100 business leaders local and international, from the plastics and rubber industries, and they were able to gain valuable insights on industry best practices, through case studies from India and the present and future plans of the export market for Sri Lanka.

The eminent panel of speakers consisted of Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman and Chief Executive Bandula Egodage, Ministry of Finance and Planning Director General – Fiscal Policy Mahinda Siriwardane and Central Institute of Plastics and Engineering Technology (CIPET) Chief Manager S. Illangovan.

Sri Lanka exports record highest first half earnings this year

Colombo Page - 02/08/2014

Sri Lanka's exports sector has recorded the highest first half earnings witnessed in five years for the January - June half of 2014.

Sri Lanka's January - June 2014 provisional exports has recorded the highest 1H earnings since 2010, registering US$ 5.41 billion. This is an increase of 45% from the 1H earnings of 2010 which stood at US$ 3.74 billion.

Kunming ’14 rakes in $4.6M for Lankan biz

Asian Tribune - 01/08/2014

Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka-centre) readies to inaugurate Sri Lanka Pavilion at the Kunming 2014 expo on 06 June in Kunming, Yunnan Province.

Sri Lanka has garnered more than $4.6 Mn orders at the recently concluded Kunming Int’l Fair in China-and this too is only from the initial overview of Kunming outcomes rather than any in-depth totals. “I am pleased of the performance of the delegation of 119 companies and businesses that I led to Kunming. I commend EDB for this successful facilitation effort” said a satisfied Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 31 July in Colombo.

Minister Bathiudeen was responding to the briefing by Bandula Egodage (Chairman/CEO-EDB) on the success of recently concluded China–South Asia International Expo in Kunming, China.

Lanka exports clinch hat trick win in first half

news.lk - 30/07/2014

Sri Lanka’s exports sector has clinched a triple win for 2014 1st half (January-June) –a first time event.

“Latest reports are good news for our $20B goal therefore we should commend our committed exporters for this achievement” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka onMonday (28) in Colombo.

Minister Bathiudeen was responding to Bandula Egodage, Chairman/CE-EDB who briefed him of the latest provisional export revenues.

Japan positive on FTA, wants economic regime strengthened

Asian Tribune - 30-07-2014

Kazuyoshi Akaba (the visiting Japanese Senior Vice Minister of Economy, Trade & Industry (METI) -at right) in discussions with Sri Lankan team led by Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka-at left) on 28 July in Colombo.

As Sri Lanka-Japan bilateral trade jumped $890 Mn and edged to $ 900 Mn mark, a keen Japan signalled towards a Lanka-Japan FTA for the first time-albeit with a qualifier. “In terms of country risk and future potential, I believe Sri Lanka is quite promising. We consider that FTA and EPAs as very useful means to promote trade. Mere conclusion of FTAs alone is not sufficient for better trade however. What is important is to develop a very robust foundation here” said a confident Kazuyoshi Akaba, the visiting Japanese Senior Vice Minister of Economy, Trade & Industry (METI) on 28 July in Colombo.

Japanese Minister Akaba was responding to Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 28 July during his bilateral session with the Sri Lankan team led by Minister Bathiudeen at Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Colombo 3.

Sri Lanka has been selected to host one of the world’s leading conferences on natural rubber Global Rubber Conference (GRC) 2014.

The three-day international event will be held from 27 to 30 October 2014 at the Cinnamon Grand in Colombo.

Global Rubber Conference 2014 themed “Sowing the Seeds for Sustainable Future” is expected to bring together over 700 experts and delegates representing over 25 countries.

MINT- an opportunity to diversify Sri Lanka’s export markets

The Island - 23/07/2014
By Nikita Samaratunga

In 2001, economist Jim O’Neill famously coined the term ‘BRIC’ to refer to the newly emerging economies of Brazil, Russian, India, and China. In 2014 O’Neill has now popularized a newer and what the BBC calls ‘fresher’ term – MINT – Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey (put forward by Fidelity Investments).

In a time where many developed nations are facing a crisis with regard to their ageing population, what makes MINT stand out, according to O’Neill, are their favourable demographic statistics. Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey are four of the world’s most heavily populated emerging economies, with populations of 118, 237, 174 and 73 million respectively. To add to that in the next 20 years all four countries will see a rise in the number of economically active workers to inactive - meaning they will have a declining dependency ratio. What this will do is ease the burden off the government. In recent years an increasing dependency ratio has plagued countries from the UK to Japan, putting pressure on government budgets and the shrinking work force. Thus the demographics of MINT will certainly be a source of envy for their more developed counterparts.

“Sri Lanka will be in the next five emerging countries”: French Ambassador

Daily FT- 23-07-2014

A session on ‘Bilateral Trade between Sri Lanka and France’ organised by the National Chamber of Commerce was held with the participation of Ambassador of France Jean Paul Monchau, as a Special Guest Speaker and assisted by Commercial Counsellor of the Trade Section of the Embassy Jean Louis POLI, at the Chamber, last week. Additionally Government senior officials- Director General Commerce, Director General, Export Development Board and Board of Investment graced the occasion.

Sri Lanka Plast and Rubexpo launch in August

Daily FT - 21/07/2014

Enterprising Fairs India Limited, a B2B exhibition company from India, has collaborated with the Plastics and Rubber Institute of Sri Lanka (PRISL), to conduct their second edition of Sri Lanka Plast – a Plastics Expo and the first edition of Rubexpo – a Rubber Expo on 14, 15 and 16 August 2014 at BMICH, Colombo. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC), Export Development Board (EDB), Industrial Development Board (IDB), Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka (RRISL) and Central Institute of Plastics and Engineering Technology, a government body of India (CIPET) have also extended their support to these B2B exhibitions.

Lankan boats get international exposure

Ceylon Today - 20/07/02014
By Ravi Ladduwahetty

Sri Lanka's boatbuilding capability for international markets will be further showcased when the Boat Show and Fisheries Exhibition 2014 will be held at the Dickowita Fisheries Harbour from 10-12 October.

Also coinciding with this event will be the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) regional parley, which will be held at the Pegasus Reef Hotel, also from 10-12 October. Both events will be hosted by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB) in collaboration with the Boat Building Technology Improvement Institute (BTI) and the Building A Future (BAF) Foundation.

EDB enters WTO global benchmark

Daily News - 17-07-2014

For the first time, the Export Development Board has entered WTO, UNCTAD, ITCs benchmark of global export agencies and finished among the top ten. EDB has come to the sixth spot among 30 national trade promotion organisations across the world, benchmarked by the International Trade Centre under WTO and UNCTAD. EDB's score in 2012 study is above average and the next level to move is 80% "High level TPO Performance" category and then, finally to 100% -what we call "world class".

"EDB has done quite well in International Trade Centre's 2012 Lanka EDB benchmarking test. EDB has come to sixth spot among 30 national trade promotion organisations across the world, benchmarked by us-the International Trade Centre under WTO and UNCTAD" said Geneva based Martin Labbe (Senior Officer, Trade Support Institutions Strengthening, International Trade Centre, Switzerland) in Colombo addressing the inaugural session of the four day "Performance Improvement Roadmap for Sri Lanka's EDB by ITC" at the EDB Auditorium, Colombo.

‘France’s economic power to weld with Sri Lanka’s rapid growth’

The Island - 15/07/2014
By Steve A. Morrell

‘Preparations for CHOGM. Colombo was a busy hive of activity. We were wondering if infrastructure for that event could be completed. It was done. No problem. It was a substantial undertaking of deft organization; of things falling into place. Of every little detail being

observed and the main event worked off with clinical attention to detail, said Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka Jean-Paul Monchau recently, talking to the business community and the press at the National Chamber of Commerce auditorium.