In this exclusive interview, Global CEO Magazine speaks with Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, on the significance and evolving role of the Presidential Export Awards. As Sri Lanka navigates economic recovery and renewed global engagement, the Awards continue to serve as the country’s highest benchmark for export excellence.

Mr Wijesinghe shares insights into how the 27th Presidential Export Awards for the 2024/25 financial year reflect national priorities such as value addition, innovation, sustainability, and SME empowerment, while reinforcing Sri Lanka’s positioning as a credible and competitive trading partner in international markets.

Q. The Presidential Export Awards have been recognised as the highest honour for exporters since 1981. How do you see the role of the Awards evolving in strengthening Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness and positioning the country in global markets?

The Presidential Export Awards have long been the highest recognition for exporters, celebrating outstanding contributions to Sri Lanka’s economy. Over the years, they have evolved beyond a recognition platform to become a benchmark for excellence, innovation, and sustainability.

By showcasing the achievements of leading exporters, the Awards encourage companies to adopt international best practices, enhance competitiveness, and expand their global footprint. In doing so, the PEA not only rewards success but also positions Sri Lanka as a credible and innovative player in international trade, inspiring other businesses to elevate their standards and contribute to national economic growth.

Q. What distinguishes the 27th Presidential Export Awards for the 2024/25 financial year, particularly in the context of economic recovery, export diversification, and value-added growth?

The 27th Presidential Export Awards for the 2024/25 financial year are distinguished by their strong alignment with Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery, renewed export momentum, and strategic focus on diversification and value addition.

This year, the Awards recognise excellence across a broader spectrum than ever before, with 15 Overall Awards and 51 Sectoral Awards covering both product and service sectors. In addition, the number of Merit Certificates has been significantly increased, enabling a greater number of deserving companies to be recognised for their export performance.

A notable enhancement is the stronger emphasis placed on the SME sector. For the first time, the same category has been awarded separately as Best SME Exporter of the Year – Product Sector and Best SME Exporter of the Year – Services Sector, ensuring more focused recognition of SME exporters and their contributions to the national export landscape.

The evaluation process remains transparent, independent, and highly rigorous. The panel of judges is chaired by a retired Supreme Court Judge and supported by eminent representatives from chambers of commerce and key government institutions. Initial screening evaluations are conducted by independent officials from the Export Development Board, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka Customs, ensuring objectivity. Expert support is also provided by institutions such as the Central Environmental Authority, the National Innovation Agency, and the Sustainable Development Council, particularly in the areas of sustainability, innovation, and compliance. To further ensure credibility and integrity, the entire evaluation process is independently audited by Ernst & Young.

Overall, the 27th Presidential Export Awards underscore Sri Lanka’s commitment to innovation, value addition, sustainability, SME empowerment, and regional inclusion, while playing a vital role in supporting economic recovery and strengthening Sri Lanka’s position in global markets.

Q. The Awards assess exporters on performance indicators such as export turnover, foreign exchange earnings, innovation, sustainability, and market diversification. How does this evaluation framework align with global best practices and long-term national export strategy?

The evaluation framework of the Presidential Export Awards is transparent, objective, and aligned with global best practices. Exporters are assessed on key performance indicators including export turnover, foreign exchange earnings, innovation, sustainability, and market diversification.

This approach ensures that recognition extends beyond financial performance to reward strategic growth, innovation, and long-term resilience. It also aligns closely with Sri Lanka’s National Export Strategy, which aims to increase total exports to USD 36 billion by 2030. By encouraging exporters to adopt international standards, expand into new markets, and prioritise sustainable growth, the Awards contribute meaningfully to achieving this national objective.

Q. One of the key objectives of the Awards is to recognise excellence in non-traditional products and services. How is the EDB encouraging emerging exporters and new sectors to participate and scale globally?

The Export Development Board actively supports emerging exporters, SMEs, start-ups, and non-traditional sectors through targeted guidance, market access support, and capacity-building initiatives. The Presidential Export Awards provide national and international visibility, helping exporters attract global buyers and strategic partners.

Through categories such as Innovative Export Service of the Year, the Awards encourage innovation across both product and service sectors. The EDB also focuses on expanding Sri Lanka’s export product and services portfolio by promoting new sectors and value-added offerings. By recognising achievements across regions and industries, the Awards inspire exporters to scale operations, diversify markets, and contribute to sustainable export growth.

Q. What message would you like to convey to Sri Lankan exporters considering applying for the Presidential Export Awards?

My message to exporters is simple: focus on innovation, sustainability, and value creation. The Presidential Export Awards provides a valuable platform to showcase achievements, benchmark performance, and gain national and international recognition.

I encourage all exporters, whether established or emerging, to participate, demonstrate excellence, and commit to responsible and sustainable growth. In doing so, they not only strengthen their own global competitiveness but also enhance Sri Lanka’s reputation as a trusted trading partner in international markets.