November 13, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s export ties with the UAE remain robust, with a diverse range of goods fueling the trade flow between the two nations.
The UAE is considered one of Sri Lanka’s key trade partners in the Middle East, and the export of goods from Sri Lanka to the UAE has seen consistent growth in recent years.
A major highlight of Sri Lanka’s exports to the UAE is Ceylon Tea, which continues to be one of the most important products in the region.
In addition to tea, Sri Lanka exports a variety of other goods including spices like cinnamon, pepper, and cardamom, which are highly sought after in the UAE market. Other notable exports include Rubber and Rubber Products, Seafood, Gemstones, Jewelry, and Coconut Products.
The UAE also acts as a major re-export hub for Sri Lankan apparel and textiles. Sri Lankan garments and textiles, including both ready-made garments and fabrics, hold a significant presence in the UAE market.
Coconut-based products such as coconut oil, copra, and other coconut derivatives are also key exports from Sri Lanka to the UAE, contributing to the range of Sri Lankan goods available in the region.
In a recent development, the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and Northern Emirates supported the brand launch of ‘Naturalz,’ a new venture by NRS Group of Companies, which took place on November 5th at the Pullman Hotel in Deira, Dubai.
Naturalz introduced a diverse array of premium Sri Lankan products, including fresh fruit pulps, spices, bottled fresh fruits, condiments, and a signature line of ice creams made from Sri Lankan fresh fruit pulp.
The brand also plays a key role in importing perishable items from Sri Lanka to the UAE, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and king coconuts, in addition to processed foods like jackfruit. T
he ice cream range, made exclusively from Sri Lankan fruit pulp, is produced in a state-of-the-art, solar-powered facility in Sharjah, which adheres to the highest sustainability standards and ensures that all ice cream products are free from preservatives and additives.
During the launch event, Consul General Alexi Gunasekera emphasized the importance of diversifying Sri Lanka’s export offerings by focusing on value-added products, rather than depending solely on traditional exports and raw materials.
He noted that initiatives like Naturalz are in line with Sri Lanka’s inclusive development strategy, which supports the value chain from farm to consumer.
The Consul General also encouraged Sri Lankan professionals residing in the UAE to explore similar partnerships that promote mutual growth and reinforce the economic ties between Sri Lanka and the UAE, further supporting the government’s broader economic development goals.
Attendees at the launch event had the opportunity to enjoy a variety of authentic Sri Lankan flavors, including fresh king coconut and fruit juices, desserts made with Sri Lankan fruit pulps, as well as savory items like cutlets, pizza, and pastries made from processed jackfruit.
