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Free consultancy services offered:
Training for SMEs in F and B sector vital
Ramani Kangaraarachchi
SMEs in Sri Lanka have been unable to adopt economically and
environmentally sound sustainable technologies due to lack of access to
expertise and technical assistance. Therefore, training is vital for
this sector, said Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Chairman Dr Anura Ekanayake.
He was speaking at the inaugural training program for SMEs in the
Food and Beverage sector by the Switch Asia Global Consultancy Program
organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka on Thursday.
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SMES make a significant contribution to industrial output |
He said that more than 50 percent of the enterprises in Sri Lanka
fall under the SMEs and they make a significant contribution to the
industrial output of Sri Lanka, but the majority of them use obsolete
technologies that consume a large amount of energy creating a serious
impact on the cost of production as well as the environment and society.
As a result SMEs in the Food and Beverage industry in the country are
becoming less competitive due to increased cost of production resulting
from the escalating cost of materials, energy and water as well as low
compliance with international standards and safety regulations.
National Chamber of Commerce Deputy President Asoka Hettigoda said
that small and medium entrepreneurs should be educated as to how costs
can be reduced in their industries. Therefore, this program would build
upon experiences on past projects and minimize the negative impact of
industrial activities on the environment and society by supporting to
adopt best practices in sustainable production.
Switch Asia program Senior Project Consultant Saman Jayaratne said
that reducing material and energy cost, increased revenue and profits,
improved workforce quality, preparation for ISO certification and
recognition as a responsible and reliable industry will benefit the
participants.
The program will run for four years. During this period it is
anticipated to enhance energy efficiency and water consumption in the
sector.
SMEs from the Food and Beverage sector can obtain free consultancy
services under this program, he said. Minister of Industrial Development
Kumara Welgama was the Chief Guest. |
