New initiatives to strengthen the SME packaging sector have been launched by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. The initiatives are to be carried out in two stages benefitting 150 SMEs and will cost over Rs. 10 million.

Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen explained that the ministry’s investment in the sector is due to printing and packaging being important elements of Sri Lanka’s branding in global markets – especially SMEs in international markets. He also noted that international packaging requirements are impacting Sri Lankan exports.

Deputy Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Dr. Shilpak Ambule echoed the importance of packaging, stating that the Indian packaging sector is the fifth largest in the world, and investments in food and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) boosted India’s packaging sector.