A key meeting aimed at boosting bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Switzerland was held at the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) recently. The session was attended by Dr. Siri Walt, Swiss Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, and Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman & CEO of the EDB.
The discussions centered on expanding economic ties, with Wijesinghe presenting Sri Lanka’s comprehensive Export Development Plan. This plan includes strategies for diversifying the product range, enhancing value addition, and revitalizing the Export Development Council of Ministers (EDCM) to tackle challenges in the export sector.
Wijesinghe highlighted the importance of political stability and the new government's focus on good governance, transparent procurement, and investor confidence. He also emphasized the need for streamlining institutions under the Ministry of Industries & Entrepreneurship Development to improve decision-making and operational efficiency.
In his remarks, Wijesinghe expressed gratitude for Switzerland's support in market research and the successful implementation of the Global Textile Programme (GTEX) in Sri Lanka, which has benefitted local small and medium-sized textile businesses. He also noted Switzerland’s pivotal role as a trading partner, particularly in knowledge-sharing and sustainable trade practices.
Ambassador Walt congratulated Sri Lanka on its peaceful elections and its commitment to the IMF process. She underscored the importance of traceability, transparency, and a corruption-free environment in global trade to attract investment, particularly in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. She also voiced strong support for Sri Lanka’s Business Circle, which connects local entrepreneurs with international counterparts.
Ambassador Walt announced plans for a Swiss Business Delegation visit to Sri Lanka in mid-June 2025, aimed at deepening business relations through forums and B2B meetings. She commended the Sri Lankan Export Development Plan and its potential to boost the country's export capacity and align with global trade trends.
The EDB also sought Swiss support for organizing the “Sri Lanka Expo” in June 2026 to highlight the country’s export potential on the global stage.
Both sides expressed a commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation, reinforcing their shared goal of strengthening trade relations and enhancing Sri Lanka’s position in international markets.
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