Exports grow 10 percent despite difficulties

Ruwanthi ABEYAKOON

NCEAWARDS: Exporters have been able to record an annual growth rate of 10 per cent in US$ terms despite the deficiencies in infrastructure and high cost of production inputs.

President of National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE) Kulatunga Rajapaksa said at the 14th annual export awards ceremony at BMICH on Tuesday.

"Our exporters have faced immense difficulties in recent times due to disruption of vital services arising out of irresponsible work stoppages. Nevertheless they have been able to record an annual growth rate of 10% in US$ terms which is a reflection of their resilience, efficiency and determination," Rajapaksa said.

He said that the Chamber has been able to expand as well as add value to its portfolio of services. "NCE is the only private sector chamber supporting the exporter community in Sri Lanka, During the past several years. Chamber has played a vital role as the voice of the exporters, in articulating various issues in order to develop exports," he said.

The "Chamber provides members with valuable trade information and trade opportunities overseas. During the past Chamber has also been engaged in collaborative projects with UN agencies such as the International Trade Centre in Geneva, to promote export services which has substantial potential for the future," Rajapaksa explained.

He added that this event is designed not only to recognise and reward successful exporters but also to motivate all exporters to achieve excellence notwithstanding the vital contribution they make to the economy of the country.

Omega Line limited won the most outstanding exporter Gold Award and the Silver Award was won by Eu-Retec. Gold Award for Best woman Exporter was Daya Apparel Exports and the silver award was won by Serandib Exports. Macksons Paint Industries bagged the Gold Award for the best Sri Lankan brand exporter.

Sector wise Gold award winners were Cornill Export (Agriculture Sector Bulk), Ni-cey International (Agriculture sector value added), George Steuarts (Tea and Marketing) (tea sector bulk), Gemi Teas Colombo (Tea sector value added), Art Decoration International (Industry Sector), Superfine International Garments (Garment Sector Quota), Hidramani Mercury Apparel and Omega Line Limited (Garments Sector Non quota), Mountain Hawk Express (Service Providers to Exporters sector), Jayaratne Gems and Lapidary (Gems and Jewellery Sector), Ceyquartz MBI (Mineral Sector) and Colombo Engineering Enterprises (Export of Services Sector).