Committee on Ways and Means draws attention to the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises to export more products through the South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA)

• Committee emphasizes the need to educate about foreign markets when registering a business

• Committee also points out the need to use digital technology to educate small and medium-sized enterprises on exports.

The Committee on Ways Means of Parliament drew attention to the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to export more products through the South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA).

This was discussed during the meeting of the Committee on Ways and Means held in Parliament recently (07) under the chairmanship of the Hon. Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma.

Discussions were held on promoting the export of products by small and medium-sized businesses in the country through agreements such as the South Asian Free Trade Agreement. Officials present mentioned that all businesses engaged in exports are directed to the Export Development Board (EDB), where necessary awareness is already being provided. However, they also noted that if further awareness is required, additional steps can be taken to address this need.

The Chairman of the Committee emphasized that awareness should be raised during the business registration process. He further highlighted the need for government officials to adopt non-traditional methods and stressed the importance of utilizing digital technology for this purpose.

The members present also underscored the necessity of developing a program to encourage exports. They pointed out to the officials that raising awareness is crucial, especially to achieve the required foreign exchange. Additionally, the Chairman of the Committee also requested the members to take steps to raise awareness on this at the rural level.

The meeting was attended by the Hon. Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, Hon. Deputy Minister of Tourism (Prof.) Ruwan Ranasinghe, Hon. Members of Parliament Arkam Ilyas, Attorney-at-Law Nilanthi Kottahachchi, Wijesiri Basnayake, Sunil Biyanwila, Ruwan Mapalagama, Thilina Samarakoon and Champika Hettiarachchi. A group of officials representing the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development were also present in this meeting.