Ceylon Chamber of Commerce calls export SMEs to apply for on-the-job coaching

Feb 26, 2019 (LBO) – Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) requests export SMEs that has a high potential for growth to apply for an on-the-job coaching programme to improve their export competitiveness. Export SMEs facing various difficulties and challenges pertaining to the successful handling of their exports are eligible to receive this coaching assistance free of charge. This programme will assist SMEs to identify the problems and solutions pertaining to the following areas related to exports. Areas include Packaging & Labelling, Mandatory Certifications, Registrations & Buyer Standards, Customs & Duties, International Shipping by Sea & Air Freight, Export Planning & Pro Forma Invoice. Under this initiative, an Export Management Coach (EMC) will visit the selected SMEs and provide in-house consultancy services to improve their export management practices. Depending on the level of assistance required by the SME, the EMC will be willing to spend up to 5 days of his time to resolve the export management related issues of selected SMEs. According to the CCC, these Export Management Coaching visits can be arranged on a mutually convenient manner to suit both the EMC and the SME. As part of the EU-Sri Lanka Trade-Related Assistance project, the International Trade Centre launched a new initiative in 2018 to enhance SMEs compliance with export formalities in Sri Lanka. Due to its longstanding achievements, professionalism, and commitment to support Sri Lankan enterprises, ITC is collaborating with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce to implement this initiative. As the first step of this initiative, ITC and CCC have trained a team of 13 national Export Management Coaches responsible to provide on-the-job coaching services to SMEs. The EU – Sri Lanka Trade-Related Assistance Project aims to increase the trade competitiveness of Small and Medium Size Enterprises in regional and European Union (EU) markets. This 4-year EU-funded project supports the improvement of SME export competitiveness and value addition in sectors with high potential for economic growth and development. Eligible SME’s may contact Manori (manori@chamber.lk 011-5588871) or Chandra (chandra@chamber.lk 077-2200771) to express their interest in receiving on-the-job coaching, or for any further details.