Training programs to develop SME exports

by Lalin Fernandopulle

The Export Development Board (EDB) will provide training on entrepreneurship development to export oriented small and medium scale entrepreneurs in the provinces.

The EDB launched the training programs at provincial level to encourage entrepreneurs to engage in export oriented enterprises which make a major contribution to the national economy, said EDB Director General Sujatha Weerakone.

The objectives of conducting training programs are to promote and develop exports of the SME sector and encourage non exporting entrepreneurs to start exporting. The EDB intends to improve the quality and productivity and skills of SMEs to cater to export markets.

Weerakone said Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) contribute 50 percent to the country's GDP. In 2004 the SMEs contribution to export earnings was Rs. 21.6 billion which was about 3.7 percent of the total export earnings for that year.

The SMEs have been recognised as an important sector in the growth of the national economy. It is the strategic sector for generation of employment, income generation, poverty alleviation and regional development, she said.

The SMEs encompass areas such as industries, agriculture, mining, manufacture, construction and the service sector. Smallholders in the plantation industry account for 65 percent of total tea production of the country. Approximately 50 percent of apparel and garments are produced by small and medium industries.

There are over 4,000 direct SME exporters in the country and their total export earnings for 2004 were commendable. There are a number of manufacturers and producers of the SME sector who export their products, Weerakone said.

Training programs will be conducted in Kandy, Kurunegala and Galle where the EDB provincial offices are situated. Training on 'Export and Import procedures' will be for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) and potential exporters, Weerakone said.

Weerakone said seminars and workshops on export marketing will be conducted with emphasis on the 5S concept and good practices. The seminars will be conducted to create awareness among the SMEs on the importance of good house-keeping for better productivity.

The EDB will provide financial assistance to exporters participating in international training programs. The overseas training programs include international trade fair participation, buyer-seller meetings and sales missions. Financial assistance will be provided to exporters for their initiative to promote Sri Lankan products and services to overseas markets, Weerakone said.