EDB convenes meeting with major export sector associations amid Middle East crisis

The Export Development Board (EDB) recently held a high-level meeting to discuss the critical issues faced by the exporters of major products to the Middle East market, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East region. 

The primary objective of the session was to identify the potential support and assistance that the EDB, in collaboration with the other relevant institutions, could provide to ensure a smooth continuation of export operations during this volatile period.

The gathering brought together representatives from key export sector associations, including those specialising in tea, spices, fruits and vegetables, food and beverages, coconut-based products, etc.

Notable private sector exporter associations, including the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, Spices and Allied Products Producers and Traders Association, Lanka Fruit and Vegetable Producers Processors and Exporters Association, together with the government institutional participants of the Sri Lanka Tea Board and Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Department emphasised the unified approach to safeguarding the interest of the export industry. 

In addition to the sector-specific associations, the Sri Lanka Freight Forwarders Association and Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents too participated and discussed about mitigating the supply chain disruptions. 

By facilitating this dialogue, the EDB aimed to establish a framework for the ongoing assistance to help the exporters overcome the current regional challenges and to take these concerns at the upcoming Export Development Council of Ministers Meeting.