Sri Lanka’s Export Development Board (EDB) has launched a rapid relief and recovery program to support exporters affected by the recent severe weather, the agency announced following a high-level meeting held at its headquarters this week.
The initiative comes as flooding, landslides and transport disruptions have heavily impacted export operations across multiple districts. EDB officials said comprehensive damage assessments are already underway to identify the exporters most affected and to guide targeted assistance.
The meeting was attended by Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Secretary Tilaka Jayasundara; EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe; Acting Director General Erandika Dissanayake; Acting Additional Director General Kumudinie Mudalige; Director of Trade Facilitation and Trade Information Dr. Sanjeewa Rathnasekara; and senior officials and industry representatives.
Wijesinghe said the EDB is implementing strategic interventions to minimize operational disruptions and maintain the flow of goods to international markets. Efforts include mitigating the impact on production capacity and ensuring exporters can sustain output levels despite weather-related setbacks.
A key focus is restoring supply chains that have been hindered by transport blockages and infrastructure damage. The EDB is coordinating with customs, port authorities and logistics providers to address delays and expedite export clearances.
Special government attention is being directed toward helping Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) resume operations quickly, officials said.
During the discussion, participants noted the increasing frequency of climate-related disruptions and called for stronger proactive and sustainable responses. The EDB said it aims to integrate sustainability into export practices and promote green technologies to enhance long-term resilience and competitiveness in the export sector.
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