Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is making significant progress in formulating the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) for 2026–2030.
The strategic initiative aims to place Sri Lanka on a path of sustained export-led economic growth, in line with the Government’s vision of “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life.”
As part of this effort, an ADB fact-finding mission under the Trade, Investment, and Industry Development Policy-Based Lending (PBL) Program (Subprogram 1) is visiting Sri Lanka from April 27 to 30, 2026. A key meeting was held on April 27 at the EDB premises, where the ADB delegation met with the Chairman, CEO, and senior management of the Board.
The ADB team was led by Kanupriya Gupta, who serves as the Mission Leader. Discussions focused on reviewing the current status of the NEDP and identifying the way forward for its effective implementation.
Key areas addressed during the meeting included the progress of Cabinet approval and the official launch of the NEDP, identifying technical assistance required from ADB for the next phase under Subprogram 2, and agreeing on immediate steps to ensure a smooth rollout.
ADB’s support comes under its Policy-Based Lending program, implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development. The program is designed to strengthen policy reforms and institutions, enhance trade competitiveness, and diversify export markets.
Both parties also discussed critical components of the implementation framework, including the establishment of a high-level NEDP Steering Committee, the creation of a dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU), and the development of a strong monitoring and reporting system.
The ADB fact-finding mission marks an important milestone in strengthening cooperation between Sri Lanka and ADB, with the NEDP expected to play a key role in boosting export performance and driving long-term economic growth.
