The Department of Commerce, with the assistance of the Matara District Secretariat, successfully organized a Regional Awareness Seminar targeting Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector entrepreneurs in the Matara District.

The objective of the seminar was to enhance awareness among SMEs on accessing international markets through the network of Commercial Officers stationed at Sri Lanka Missions abroad and to equip them with relevant information on trade agreements. The programme aimed to provide institutional support to enable SMEs to explore export opportunities and expand their global presence.

During the session, Ms. Ameena Mohin, Director General of Commerce (Acting), and Mr. Chandana Thilakaratne, District Secretary of the Matara District Secretariat, addressed the gathering and emphasized the vital role played by SMEs in national economic development. They further highlighted the Government’s ongoing initiatives to facilitate and channel SMEs towards international markets.

Mr. Jagath Abeywarna, Director of Commerce and Head of the Rules of Origin Division of the Department of Commerce, delivered a presentation on the benefits of Sri Lanka’s trade agreements for exports under various preferential and non-preferential trading arrangements to Sri Lankan exporters. Mr. Anil Sirimanna, Deputy Director of Commerce and Head of Trade Promotion Division, also conducted a comprehensive presentation on the role and functions of the Department of Commerce, as well as guidance on entering export markets, including key procedures and requirements.

Ms. Niluka Siriwardena, Development Officer from the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB) briefed participants on the range of services and assistance schemes available at the EDB to support export-oriented enterprises.

The seminar provided an interactive platform for SME entrepreneurs to engage directly with relevant institutions and clarify matters relating to export procedures, trade agreements, and market access opportunities. More than 100 participants representing the cinnamon, textile, spices, processed food, and soft toys sectors took part in the event.

This seminar forms part of a continued series of awareness programmes conducted by the Department of Commerce to strengthen the export readiness and market access of Sri Lankan Small and Medium enterprises in the international markets and global value chain.

27.02.2026
Department of Commerce

The Department of Commerce successfully convened a consultative meeting on 17th February 2026, chaired by the Director General of Commerce, with the participation of numerous representatives from private business chambers, trade associations, and key government institutions. The meeting served as an important platform to exchange views on ongoing trade promotion initiatives, address concerns, and strengthen coordination among stakeholders. The discussions yielded the intended outcomes and paved the way for extended collaboration to further promote Sri Lankan exports through enhanced public–private partnership and the effective utilization of Commercial Officers overseas.

This brief consultative meeting was organised also in line with the decision of the NTFC Quarterly Meeting held on 10th October 2025, chaired by the Secretary to the Treasury, which requested Government Agencies to conduct stakeholder consultations to raise awareness and address trade concerns.

The Department intends to continue this consultative forum on a quarterly basis in order to maintain regular dialogue and ensure continuous engagement which will further strengthen coordination and facilitate timely resolution of trade-related matters.