‘Creative Sri Lanka 2030’ to elevate local talent to global heights

• Aims to transform local creative talent into major export sector using sustainable and ethical manufacturing
• EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe highlights Sri Lanka’s untapped creative potential and timely initiative to capture niche export markets valuing sustainable, ethical manufacturing
• EU Delegation to Sri Lanka Charge d’Affaires a.i Lars Bredal stresses inclusion, sustainability, and export readiness for Sri Lankan crafts
• EU Cultural Relations Platform Project Lead Robert Meeder highlights three years of research behind matchmaking program
• University of the Arts London lecturers conduct sessions from 19-23 March with British Council support, selected companies gain skills to position their brands globally
• European and Sri Lankan designers share insights on ethical partnerships, sustainability, and high-value markets

Sri Lanka’s rich tradition of craftsmanship and artistic talent is set to take centre stage in the global market through the ‘Creative Sri Lanka 2030 – Matchmaking Pilot Program’ launched yesterday, spearheaded by the European Union (EU) in partnership with the Export Development Board (EDB). 

The initiative aims to transform local creative industry into a major export sector by leveraging sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices. 

Delivering the opening remarks at the program’s launch, EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe highlighted the untapped potential of Sri Lanka’s creative economy and stressed that the global industry in one of the fastest growing sectors with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) playing a crucial role in expansion.

“Sri Lanka is home to an incredible wealth of craft talent and we know that this sector could be one of the major export sectors, if necessary initiatives are taken,” he said.

Citing UN estimates on the global creative economy, which is valued at $ 2 trillion and contributing nearly 50 million jobs worldwide, Wijesinghe said the industry is a vital driver of economic growth and social development.

“I strongly believe this is a timely initiative to capture niche export markets that value sustainable and ethical manufacturing. Our main objectives of partnering with this program are to promote ethical, sustainable manufacturing in the country, increase export of value-added, niche products from Sri Lanka, and provide maximum contribution to the economic development of the country,” he emphasised.

Noting Sri Lanka’s creative industry, with its deep cultural roots and diverse artistic expressions, holds immense potential, the EDB Chief stressed the importance of seeking sustainable sources of growth to revive the economy and create meaningful employment opportunities for the young generation. 

“Recognising this potential, we have taken strategic steps to develop and promote the sector. The EDB collaborated with the Institute for Future Creations, University of the Arts London, and the Chamber of Ethical Lifestyle Enterprises to unveil the ‘Creative Sri Lanka 2030’ initiative. This project was officially launched last year and the EDB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Institute for Future Creations in facilitating this project as the local focal point,” Wijesinghe disclosed. 

Delegation of the EU to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Charge d’Affaires a.i Lars Bredal emphasised the importance of the craft industry. 

“Sri Lanka’s craft sector has potential. This initiative is about inclusion, sustainability, and ensuring that traditional crafts thrive in the modern economy. We are working with the EDB to make Sri Lankan crafts truly export ready,” he said. 

The primary objectives of the initiative include promoting ethical and sustainable manufacturing, increasing exports of value-added niche products, and contributing to national economic development. To achieve these goals, the program will focus on capacity-building within the industry and equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to compete in international markets.

EU Cultural Relations Platform Project Lead Robert Meeder further highlighted the significance of collaboration in this endeavour. 

“This matchmaking program is the result of three years of research and engagement with both Sri Lankan and European industries. By fostering these partnerships, we are creating a new model for ethical trade that values heritage, sustainability, and shared growth,” he explained. The project includes specialised training and workshops, the introduction of new materials and technology, product adaptation, and strategic matchmaking with global buyers. 

The educational program, supported by the British Council, will be conducted by lecturers from the University of Arts London, headed by Knowledge Exchange Lead Hannah Middleton, from 19-23 March.

Selected companies will benefit from a comprehensive learning experience, enabling them to position their brands for export success.

During the launch, European and Sri Lankan designers shared insights on ethical partnerships, sustainable production, and high-value market opportunities. 

Expressing gratitude to the program’s key stakeholders, the EDB Chairman acknowledged the University of the Arts London, the Institute for Future Creations, the Chamber of Ethical Lifestyle Enterprises, and the British Council Sri Lanka for their contributions. 

Wijesinghe also extended his appreciation to the European Union for its funding support in implementing the matchmaking pilot program.

The Delegation of the EU to Sri Lanka works closely with local partners to promote economic development, trade, and cultural exchange. Through targeted programs and initiatives, the EU aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s integration into the global economy while supporting sustainable and ethical trade practices.

Following the successful implementation of this pilot program, the EDB plans to continue the initiative until 2030 with the support of relevant stakeholders, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability for Sri Lanka’s creative industries.

The launch event was attended by distinguished guests, including Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Sri Lanka Bonnie Horbach, Delegation of the EU Deputy, Political Officer Press and Information Section Caroline Lopes, British Council Sri Lanka Country Head Orlando Edwards, National Crafts Council Chairperson Dr. Ayesha Wickramasinghe, National Design Centre Chairman Sisira Amarabandu, Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board Chairperson Sujeeva Senanayake, Alliance Française de Colombo Director Cécile Hoorelbeke, Embassy of Romania Chargé d’Affaires a.i Mihaela Rutjens, and Embassy of Italy in Sri Lanka Deputy Head of Mission Arcidiacono Alberto.