Ceylon Chamber of Commerce launches online marketplace to promote export amid growing demand

Ceylon Chamber of Commerce CEO Manjula de Silva exchanging the agreement with Epic Lanka Technologies CEO Thareendra Kalpage, in the presence of other officials from the two organisations

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce with a view to support companies to promote exports from Sri Lanka, entered into a partnership agreement to integrate an ‘Online Market Place’, developed by Epic Lanka Technologies Ltd. The platform will be integrated to the Chamber’s e-commerce portal https://bizinfosrilanka.lk.

During the signing ceremony held on 7 August, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Manjula de Silva emphasised that with the introduction of this initiative, priority will be given to promote organisations manufacturing sustainable products that would in return provide environmental, social and economic benefits. “As our global economy grows, it is critical that local businesses can compete in this marketplace. The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to bring solutions forward that expand opportunities for businesses to participate in the global economy,” said CCC CEO Manjula De Silva.

“By choosing Doxpro Shopex online marketplace model, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is truly distinguishing itself and Epic Lanka Technologies is honoured to be working alongside them on this journey,” said Epic Lanka Technologies CEO Thareendra Kalpage. “By fully utilising the capabilities of the Doxpro Shopex Marketplace Platform, CCC is set up for marketplace success.” 

According to figures collected by the International Trade Centre (ITC) – Geneva from EU countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Spain, it was found that sustainable product sourcing has become a top priority for retailers in these key European Union markets. The emphasis on environmentally-friendly products, fair and ethical trade, and decent jobs in supplier companies have strong consumer support and it is expected that such businesses will increase significantly in the next five years.

In addition, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka will also be encouraged to register with the Online Market Place to promote their products to exporters as partners of the value chain. The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently established a Centre for SMEs in a bid to play a more active role in building this dynamic sector of the economy. 

Local exporters will be able to source products required through the proposed online system and the Chamber will work closely with the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Product Trade Associations to attract suppliers from various parts of the country. The platform is expected to be launched in October.

Product details uploaded to the Online Market Place will be promoted via social media in addition to the Sri Lankan Diplomatic Missions based overseas, Foreign Diplomatic Missions in Sri Lanka and across 130 Overseas Trade Promotion Organisations.