The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) has launched a key initiative in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to craft the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) for 2025–2029. This effort, announced under the 2025 Budget’s "A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life" policy framework, marks a pivotal step in charting Sri Lanka’s export trajectory over the next five years.
An ADB delegation visited the EDB headquarters on April 25 to commence discussions on the NEDP, which will serve as a roadmap for boosting export performance and economic resilience. The initiative is supported under the ADB’s policy-based loan (PBL) program administered by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development.
Building on the foundation of the previous National Export Strategy (NES) 2018–2022, the new plan promises a more targeted, data-driven, and sustainability-focused approach. Key areas of focus include the integration of technological innovation, stronger regulatory frameworks, and greater value addition, while emphasizing export diversification and market expansion.
During the meeting, officials discussed critical components of the strategy, underscoring the need for a unified national vision, clearly defined roles for key agencies such as the EDB, and ambitious export targets—including a goal of reaching USD 36 billion in export revenue by 2030. The strategy will also prioritize digital transformation and enhanced stakeholder collaboration.
Challenges related to implementation were also acknowledged, with participants stressing the urgency of establishing a dedicated core team, action plan, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure timely execution. Policy reforms, sustained innovation, and inclusive engagement with public and private stakeholders were identified as essential to the plan’s success.
Both the EDB and ADB reaffirmed their commitment to a robust partnership aimed at fostering a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable export sector that will drive Sri Lanka’s economic growth in the years ahead.
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