{"id":3366,"date":"2024-10-15T15:46:43","date_gmt":"2024-10-15T10:16:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ceylondailynews.lk\/home\/?p=3366"},"modified":"2024-10-15T15:46:43","modified_gmt":"2024-10-15T10:16:43","slug":"mangala-wijesinghe-edb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ceylondailynews.lk\/home\/2024\/10\/15\/mangala-wijesinghe-edb\/","title":{"rendered":"Mangala Wijesinghe Appointed as New Chairman of Sri Lanka\u2019s Export Development Board (EDB)"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Discover how Mangala Wijesinghe will lead Sri Lanka\u2019s National Export Strategy and drive sustainable growth in the export sector.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

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A significant leadership change has occurred within Sri Lanka\u2019s export sector. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chief Operating Officer of Brown & Company PLC, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Export Development Board (EDB). He takes over from Dr. Kingsley Bernard, a well-known marketer and management expert, who led the EDB since April 2023. Wijesinghe\u2019s vast experience across diverse industries positions him well to continue driving Sri Lanka\u2019s export sector forward, aiming to expand its international market presence and boost export values.<\/p>\n

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The Role of EDB in Sri Lanka’s Economy<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The Export Development Board (EDB)<\/a> plays a crucial role in Sri Lanka\u2019s economic landscape. Established in 1979 under the Sri Lanka Export Development Act No. 40, the EDB is tasked with promoting the country\u2019s exports, which form a critical part of the national economy. The board\u2019s key responsibilities include formulating national export strategies, advising the government on export policies, and ensuring the performance of the export sector aligns with national growth objectives.<\/p>\n

By serving as a bridge between the government and exporters, the EDB ensures that Sri Lankan products and services are positioned competitively on the global stage. The institution is vital for fostering innovation, expanding market reach, and nurturing the growth of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).<\/p>\n

Mangala Wijesinghe\u2019s Professional Journey<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Mangala Wijesinghe\u2019s career is a testament to his leadership capabilities and dedication to economic development. As the Chief Operating Officer of Brown & Company PLC, a major conglomerate in Sri Lanka, Wijesinghe has gained substantial experience in managing various sectors, including industrial, service, and export industries. His leadership roles extend beyond Brown & Company, having served in key positions at East West Information Systems (E-WIS), Lanka Television Networks, and Pramuka Savings & Development Bank.<\/p>\n

With over 16 years of experience in the corporate world, Wijesinghe\u2019s expertise is diverse, covering business management, marketing, and export development. This experience will be instrumental in guiding the EDB to meet its ambitious goals.<\/p>\n

Transition from Dr. Kingsley Bernard<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Mangala Wijesinghe succeeds Dr. Kingsley Bernard, who led the EDB through a transformative period. Under Dr. Bernard\u2019s leadership, the EDB implemented several key initiatives aimed at modernizing Sri Lanka\u2019s export strategies, with a focus on expanding into new markets. His tenure saw the introduction of innovative programs designed to enhance the competitiveness of Sri Lankan products and services.<\/p>\n

The transition to Wijesinghe\u2019s leadership marks a new chapter for the EDB. While Dr. Bernard\u2019s legacy sets a strong foundation, Wijesinghe\u2019s appointment signals a fresh perspective aimed at further advancing Sri Lanka\u2019s export potential.<\/p>\n

Mangala Wijesinghe’s Vision for EDB<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Mangala Wijesinghe has already outlined his vision for the EDB, with a strong emphasis on increasing the country\u2019s export value and diversifying into new markets. He aims to strengthen Sri Lanka\u2019s global market position by capitalizing on emerging market trends, fostering innovation, and encouraging sustainable practices across industries.<\/p>\n

Wijesinghe\u2019s approach will focus on the effective implementation of the National Export Strategy (NES) and enhancing international trade relations. His leadership will seek to provide SMEs with greater support, helping them tap into global opportunities and contribute to the broader economic development of Sri Lanka.<\/p>\n

Export Development Board\u2019s Key Responsibilities<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The EDB\u2019s responsibilities are diverse, ranging from policy advising to market promotion and industry facilitation. Under Wijesinghe\u2019s leadership, these functions are expected to be enhanced further to ensure more Sri Lankan businesses gain access to international markets. The board plays an active role in:<\/p>\n