EDB extends financial assistance scheme for SMEs to obtain BRC certification

The Export Development Board (EDB) announced it would implement a financial assistance scheme to help SMEs engaged in the food sector get their products on the shelves of international markets, especially to the UK.

The scheme will assist SMEs involved in manufacturing and exporting food products to obtain the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety certification, with the objective of building the capacity of Sri Lankan food exporters to enter the UK market.

The EDB shared that the UK has been identified as an attractive market for Sri Lankan food products, due to the preferential tariff benefits offered under the New Enhanced Framework.

However, entry to the UK market for local food exporters is limited, due to the issues in compliance, mainly the BRC, which is essential for the UK, the EDB said.

In an effort to facilitate exports in that direction, the EDB will offer a grant, up to a maximum of Rs.350,000 per company, to help cover 50 percent of the inspection and certification cost, on a reimbursement basis.

The programme that will be operative till end-2021 is open to companies engaged in manufacturing and export of coconut kernel-based products, food and beverage, fruits and vegetables and spices and concentrates.