The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka’s export-led growth agenda, as progress accelerates on the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026–2030, spearheaded by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB).

An ADB fact-finding mission visited Colombo from 27 to 30 April 2026 under its Trade, Investment, and Industry Development Policy-Based Lending Programme. The delegation, led by Senior Public Sector Economist Kanupriya Gupta, engaged with EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe and senior officials to review progress and define the next phase of implementation.

Discussions focused on securing Cabinet approval, outlining technical assistance under Subprogram 2, and ensuring a structured rollout of the NEDP. The plan aims to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance trade competitiveness, and diversify Sri Lanka’s export markets in alignment with national economic priorities.

Both parties also reviewed governance mechanisms, including the formation of a high-level steering committee and a dedicated Project Management Unit, alongside a robust monitoring framework to track outcomes.

The initiative forms part of ADB’s broader engagement with Sri Lanka to support policy reforms and economic recovery. Once implemented, the NEDP is expected to significantly boost export performance and position Sri Lanka more competitively in global markets.