Sri Lanka export excellence initiative supports SMEs to scale globally

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Union (EU), successfully conducted the final pitching event of batch III of ExpoScaleUp, designed to help Sri Lankan SMEs become more competitive and expand into global markets. Supported through the EU’s regional Accelerating Climate Smart and Inclusive Infrastructure in South Asia (ACSIIS) initiative under the EU Global Gateway Strategy, ExpoScaleUp is part of the Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative (SLEEI), a flagship program aimed at strengthening SME export readiness, market access and long-term competitiveness.

Through ExpoScaleUp III, 25 Sri Lankan SMEs developed export market plans to sharpen their strategies and position their businesses for international growth. The program concluded with a pitching event, where participants presented their business potential and pathways to new markets before a panel of experts.

In his opening address, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe, highlighted the importance of SMEs in strengthening Sri Lanka’s export sector and expanding the country’s presence in international markets. He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of IFC and the European Union in supporting Sri Lankan enterprises through initiatives aimed at enhancing their capabilities and export competitiveness.

Speaking at the event, IFC South Asia Manager-Country Advisory and Economics Gregory Smith, emphasised that helping SMEs are central to Sri Lanka’s economy, and helping them compete globally is key to unlocking Sri Lanka’s growth, creating jobs and strengthening economic resilience. 

He noted that IFC has long provided SMEs with finance and expertise to help SMEs strengthen their businesses and enter new markets. This partnership builds on that foundation, helping more Sri Lankan businesses develop the capabilities and connections they need to compete and grow globally.”

Delegation of the EU to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Head of Partnerships Virginie Lafleur-Tighe said, “The EU is proud to support the ExpoScaleUp program as part of our broader partnership with Sri Lanka under the ACSIIS regional program. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the competitiveness of SMEs by helping them become more export-ready, more sustainable, and better equipped to meet evolving market standards. By linking private sector development with climate action, and by working closely with partners such as IFC and the EDB, we are contributing to a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready export ecosystem in Sri Lanka.”

Participating SMEs represented a diverse range of sectors, including spices and concentrates, processed food and beverages, coconut-based products, gifts and handicrafts, ICT/BPO, and herbal cosmetics. 

Ten SMEs were recognised for the best Export Market Plans, highlighting their efforts to develop structured market-entry strategies and identify opportunities for sustainable export growth. Selected SMEs will have the opportunity to advance to ExpoConnect, the program’s next stage, focused on market access, trade facilitation, and targeted matchmaking with international buyers. 

Nearly 750 SMEs across Sri Lanka have benefited from the SLEEI program through regional awareness sessions and business clinics. The initiative highlights the commitment of the EDB, IFC and the European Union to helping Sri Lankan SMEs compete globally.

Source : Daily FT