By: Staff Writer
November 04, Colombo (LNW): In a strong move to boost women’s participation in international trade, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with Verité Research, successfully conducted a capacity-building program titled “Leveraging Trade Data for Export Success” on 21 October at the EDB Training Arena in Colombo.
The program, part of EDB’s ongoing Women Entrepreneurship Development initiative, brought together 35 women-led exporters representing multiple sectors of the economy. It aimed to equip participants with the analytical tools and technical skills needed to interpret trade data, assess global market trends, and make informed decisions that drive export growth.
Through interactive workshops and case-based learning, participants explored the use of trade data to identify market opportunities, assess competitiveness, and develop export strategies aligned with global demand patterns. The sessions also encouraged peer learning and collaboration, fostering a network of data-savvy women entrepreneurs committed to strengthening Sri Lanka’s export performance.
The training was conducted by Verité Research’s International Economics Programme, a team widely recognised for its expertise in trade and economic policy analysis. Lead Economist Mathisha Arangala delivered practical insights into analysing trade statistics and leveraging them for export diversification. He was joined by Research Director Subhashini Abeysinghe, Economics Program Lead Malinda Meegoda, and Research Analyst Bulani Weerawadane, who guided participants through data interpretation and strategy formulation.
The workshop underscored how evidence-based decision-making can help exporters identify emerging markets, manage risks, and adapt to changing trade dynamics critical skills for women entrepreneurs navigating the competitive global marketplace.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, EDB officials said the program reflects the institution’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs by providing access to professional knowledge, market intelligence, and mentorship. By developing their capacity to use trade data effectively, the EDB aims to strengthen the contribution of women-led businesses to Sri Lanka’s export economy and sustainable development goals.
The collaboration between EDB and Verité Research also demonstrated the impact of partnerships between research organisations and trade promotion agencies. It showcased how combining policy insight with practical business training can create transformative opportunities for women in export industries.
As global trade becomes increasingly data-driven, the EDB’s training initiative marks a vital step in ensuring Sri Lanka’s women exporters are equipped not only with ambition but also with the analytical capability to thrive in international markets.
