The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) launched the SheTrades Sri Lanka Hub, funded by the UK’s SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme.. The hub will serve as a resource centre to equip women entrepreneurs with the skills, market access, and policy support required to successfully navigate international trade dynamics, fostering greater participation in global trade.
Sri Lanka’s export industry has demonstrated resilience, with merchandise exports reaching $16.17 billion in 2024, a 7.06% year-on-year increase according to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), despite global economic challenges.
Women-led businesses in Sri Lanka contribute to over 25% of the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector in-country yet face disproportionate challenges in securing international buyers and scaling operations, a situation faced by women entrepreneurs around the world. The Hub will provide tailored training, trade facilitation, and networking opportunities to bridge this gap and capitalize on the momentum of Sri Lanka’s economic growth and increase exports.