Stories

Strengthening Sri Lanka’s institutions to boost fruit, vegetable exports

16 January 2015
ITC News

Enterprises in the Sri Lankan fruit and vegetable sector now have stronger support in their efforts to export to new markets.

Trade support institutions working on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) issues are strengthening their network after participating in a workshop organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 26-27 November in Colombo. The workshop was planned as part of a national project funded by the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF).

The goal of the project is to improve the safety and quality of Sri Lankan fruits and vegetables by having institutions involved with SPS issues develop a more coordinated approach in supporting exporters in the sector.

Twenty-four representatives from 18 institutions participated in interactive working sessions to identify gaps and challenges and to create action plans and joint future initiatives. ITC experts assisted in the mapping of an institutional framework.
Participants also set up a working group to further develop the initiatives.

Sri Lankan fruit and vegetable exporters face challenges in understanding and complying with European Union regulations and standards. Learning to comply with those regulations presents an opportunity for businesses to access new markets.