A strategic initiative by the German Import Promotion Desk (IPD) is playing a pivotal role in enhancing the export potential of 20 women-led agribusinesses in Sri Lanka. This comprehensive program is equipping female entrepreneurs with critical skills, technical knowledge, and international market exposure, helping them integrate successfully into the global trade ecosystem.
In collaboration with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), IPD Germany has launched the second phase of the EDB-IPD Women-Led Exports Capacity Building Programme. This initiative is designed to provide targeted training, continuous mentorship, and structured guidance to help these businesses navigate the complexities of international trade and sustain long-term success in global markets.
Angie Martinez from IPD Germany emphasized the importance of fostering strong trade connections while simultaneously investing in capacity development. “Establishing trade linkages with international buyers is essential, but true success comes from sustained growth and resilience in global trade. This program ensures that women entrepreneurs are not just entering the export market but are fully equipped to thrive in it,” she stated.
The initiative, which commenced in December 2023, has already made significant strides in strengthening the capabilities of women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka’s agri-food sector. The program focuses on enabling businesses to meet stringent international quality standards, ensuring compliance with global trade regulations, and facilitating connections with European markets. By providing hands-on training and real-world exposure, the initiative empowers women-led businesses to compete effectively on a global scale.
German Ambassador Felix Neumann reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to fostering women’s economic empowerment and supporting sustainable trade partnerships. He highlighted that structured export assistance, sustained mentorship, and increased market access are vital to enabling women-led enterprises to not only establish themselves in international markets but also to grow and expand their operations over time.
EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe underscored the importance of this program in achieving Sri Lanka’s broader export growth objectives. He outlined ambitious export targets for the next five years and encouraged participants to take full advantage of the opportunities presented. He reiterated the EDB’s commitment to long-term business development, ensuring continuous support through networking with international buyers, providing strategic market insights, and offering hands-on guidance to help these businesses scale globally.
By nurturing women entrepreneurs and equipping them with the necessary tools for success, this initiative contributes not only to the growth of individual businesses but also to the broader economic development of Sri Lanka. With a strong focus on capacity building, international networking, and sustainability, the program is paving the way for women-led enterprises to emerge as key players in the global agricultural trade landscape
