NCE welcomes government initiative to convene quarterly meetings of EDCM

Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa

Shiham Marikar

The National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE) warmly welcomes the government’s initiative to convene quarterly meetings of the Export Development Council of Ministers (EDCM), a high-level forum chaired by the President of Sri Lanka, bringing together key stakeholder ministers to assess progress and address challenges in the country’s export development agenda.

As the only chamber exclusively representing Sri Lankan exporters, the NCE views this initiative as a timely and strategic move that fosters structured engagement and policy alignment to drive export-led growth. The Chamber stands ready to contribute proactively by providing regular sectoral updates, feedback, and identifying obstacles faced by its diverse membership to support evidence-based decision-making.

In line with this, and as per the direction of the President during the EDCM meeting held on January 27, it was proposed to establish a dedicated discussion forum/platform between Sri Lankan exporters and officials from Sri Lankan Missions overseas. 

This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, and the Export Development Board (EDB) of Sri Lanka, is aimed at fostering direct dialogue to explore export growth strategies, resolve challenges, and collect suggestions from the ground.

The inaugural meeting of this platform, held yesterday (April 7), was a resounding success. It provided a dynamic space for exporters, trade-related entities, and Sri Lanka’s overseas missions to share insights, propose practical solutions, and discuss how best to navigate international markets and attract foreign direct investment (FDI).

During the meeting, the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) proposed that the Ministry consider launching an online platform where all Sri Lankan Missions abroad and their Trade Officers can submit brief monthly updates. These updates would include vital information such as emerging market trends, regulatory changes, and new needs or opportunities in their respective regions. Such a platform would empower exporters and chambers in Sri Lanka to respond quickly and strategically, enhancing the country’s competitiveness and market responsiveness.

The Chamber also appreciates the continued efforts of the Export Development Board (EDB) for organizing the Exporters’ Forum, a critical mechanism for exporters to raise operational concerns directly with relevant regulatory authorities.

During the session, NCE Secretary General, CEO Shiham Marikar, emphasized the importance of this forum as a real-time platform for exporters to voice their challenges and suggestions. 

“These collaborative initiatives represent a major step forward in streamlining policy, empowering exporters, and fostering stronger global engagement,” said Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa, President of the National Chamber of Exporters. 

“The NCE will continue to actively participate and support these platforms to ensure that the genuine voice of the exporter is heard, and their needs are addressed in a timely and effective manner.”