EDB Hosts EU Fair Trade Delegation, Targets US$ 4-6 Mn in New Orders 📈

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the Brussels Embassy, successfully hosted a 12-member inward trade delegation from the European Union (EU) to promote Sri Lankan Fair Trade products and strengthen bilateral relations. • Delegation & Markets: The delegation included key representatives from Belgium, France, and Italy, notably Colruyt Group, a major Belgian retail chain. • Focus Sectors: EU buyers expressed particular interest in spices, rice, coconut products, tropical fruits, and tea. • Programme: The comprehensive program ran from November 17-22, featuring direct business-to-business (B2B) meetings, field visits to Fair Trade and organic certified producers/farmer clusters, and discussions on traceability and government support. • EDB Projected Outcomes (2025-2026): • Increase in EU orders targeting approximately US$ 4–6 million. • Establishing direct linkages to supermarket value chains for 3-4 companies. • Connecting 1-2 Sri Lankan Fair Trade clusters with the 'Fair Trade Town' concept in the EU. • Context: The EU is a significant market. In 2023, Sri Lanka's Fair Trade exports generated approximately US$ 2.5 million, supported by 72 companies and nearly 28,000 farmers. The global Fair Trade market is projected to reach US$ 23.6 billion by 2033 (9.2% annual growth).