NCE Awards on September 18

by Rohana Jayalal

The export sector needs to be developed fast to match the achievements of our competitors, whose exports constitute over 75% of GDP and in countries such as Singapore this amounts to over 100%. The Chamber stands ready to support the Government to develop and implement a vibrant export-led strategy, said President, National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE) Sarada de Silva at the launch of the NCE Awards in Colombo last week.

The awards ceremony will be held on September 18 at the Galadari Hotel, for the 23rd consecutive year.

Exports play a vital role in the economic development of a country such as Sri Lanka.

This fact has been recognized by Government leaders. Exports which were 33% of the GDP a decade ago has come down to 13%, he said.

The National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka recognizes exporters who make a significant contribution to the economy by rewarding them for their achievements in the local and international market place.

The NCE Awards focus on three main categories, exporters of various products, service providers to exporters (including suppliers of raw materials, components, intermediate products) and other inputs to exporters. Therefore, those who are 'indirect exporters', and other service providers such as freight forwarders, couriers, bankers and exporters of business and professional services are included.

This year over 750 people, comprising the business community, state officials and diplomats are expected to take part.

Awards will be presented in the form of Gold, Silver and Bronze trophies, to the winners in the various sectors under the Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large categories.

Awards will also be presented to the most Value Added Exporter, the Best Brand Exporter, the Best SME Exporter, the Best Woman Exporter, the Best Exporter to Emerging Markets and three awards (Gold, Silver, and Bronze trophies) to the best three innovative exporters.

The 'Most Outstanding Exporter' award will be presented to the best overall exporter among all sectors and categories.

The NCE also launched a re-designed trophy.