Sri Lanka has launched its National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026–2030, a comprehensive roadmap aimed at strengthening export competitiveness, diversifying export sectors, and achieving export earnings of US$36 billion by 2030

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The plan, officially launched on June 16 under the patronage of Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi, has been developed by the Export Development Board (EDB) with technical support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It was approved by the Cabinet in May this year as the country's official framework for export development and promotion.

Aligned with the Government's vision of “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life,” the NEDP seeks to transform Sri Lanka into a competitive logistics and knowledge-based export hub serving regional and global markets while driving sustainable, export-led economic growth.

The strategy is built around two key pillars: six cross-sector enablers and eight priority export sectors. The cross-sector enablers focus on improving trade logistics, trade facilitation, trade finance and investment reforms, market access and promotion, quality standards and ESG compliance, as well as skills development, entrepreneurship and innovation.

To accelerate export diversification and value addition, the plan identifies eight high-potential sectors: auto components, minerals-based industries, rubber-based industries, marine industries including boat and shipbuilding, spices and concentrates, digital products and services, electrical and electronic components, and processed food and beverages.

The NEDP was formulated through an extensive stakeholder consultation process involving more than 300 representatives from government institutions, the private sector, development partners, civil society organisations and industry experts.

The Government expects the implementation of the plan, supported by a robust governance and monitoring framework, to elevate local products to international standards, expand Sri Lanka's export base and contribute to long-term economic stability and growth. The NEDP is expected to serve as a key driver of the country's economic transformation over the next five years.