Positive response for local exporters at Expo 2012
By Cheranka Mendis
Several exporters managed to secure positive inquiries within the first two days of the four-day trade, investment and tourism promotion exhibition, Expo 2012.
Speaking to the Weekend FT, exporters noted that while many inquiries were made during the two days that were exclusively for investors and buyers, only a few were of potential customer level. They noted that materialising and inquiries to place proper orders would take time as samples had to be sent abroad, negotiations take place, etc. However, the response of international buyers has been positive, they said.
Apparel manufacturers Sarasavi Exports (Pvt) Ltd. Chairman Hemantha Kumara commented that the company managed to meet two “high potential” buyers and another who wished to relocate its factory to the Asian region.
“With the support of EDB, we managed to contact several buyers abroad. Discussions have been going on for the past few months and with the Expo being organised, we managed to invite them to see the products,” Kumara said.
From the contacts established, two were impressed by the company’s work and have given favourable responses to the company. “They went back yesterday. However, I received an email this morning confirming an order of high quantity.”
Kumara added: “A businessman who wished to relocate their factory from Turkey who was in search of a manufacturer with potential was also highly interested about the company. He requested an immediate factory visit and was quite happy with the setting, knowledge, technology and end product. We are awaiting a favourable response from them as well.”
Laugfs Holdings Chairman W.K.H. Wegapitiya added that the company stall featuring its industrial tyre range had received a number of inquiries from Korea and Taiwan. “All this time we concentrated on USA and Europe and the interest from the Asian parties was a change that is both valuable and welcoming.”
Nelna Group of Companies Manager for Administration and Marketing Wasantha Warusapperuma stated that more than 100 inquires were made within the last two days on its fruit plantation business, in particular the mango business.
“What we have is a modified variety of the Indian Alphonso and the Lankan Karthacolumban. It is unique, much tastier and bigger. Though I doubt we would be able to get all 100 contacts in, we are positive that we would be able to secure a few deals as a result of the exhibition.”
Most inquiries came from China and the Gulf, he said.
With over 500 farmers linked with it, the Protected Agriculture Entrepreneurs Association CEO Sujeewa Kirindigoda stated that new business was much appreciated. He stated that they had received inquiries from the Maldives, to which they already cater.
Quality paper product manufacturer, Earth Bound Creations Proprietor Sagara Ranga Liyanage said that inquires were made by two companies, one from Germany and another from Dubai.
“The prospects of exporting to the Dubai company are 90% positive. They have 100 showrooms in eight countries. We hope we will be able to get this as it would mean a lot to us.”
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