Brainstorming Session on  “Food Exports for Economic Growth”

A brainstorming session on “Food Exports for Economic Growth” was held at the OPA on the 29th of January 2025. Leading figures from the food industry, academia and the banking sector participated at this event which was organized by the Environment & Agriculture Committee. The presentations by the experts were followed by a lively and informative discussion in which the attendees were able to explore strategies and policies to unlock the full potential of Sri Lanka’s food export sector to drive the country’s economic growth.

The deliberations of this brainstorming session will pave the way for a policy paper to be presented to the government and other stakeholders. It will also form the basis for ongoing dialogue with other associations as well as media discussions. This event was attended by President Mr. Sujeewa Lal Dahanayake, President-Elect Mr. Jayantha Gallehewa and General Secretary Mr. Tisara De Silva. The moderator was Mr. V. Rameshkumar, Chairman, the Environment & Agriculture Committee and Vice President – OPA.

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Policy Paper on Food Exports for Economic Growth

The Environment & Agriculture Committee of the Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA), chaired by Mr. V. Rameshkumar (Vice President, OPA), has successfully completed and submitted a comprehensive Policy Paper on “Food Exports for Economic Growth.”

This policy document is a key deliverable of the committee for the 2024/25 term and is the result of a rigorous and consultative process, including a brainstorming session held on 29th January 2025 with the participation of eight experts representing the agriculture, export, financial, and academic sectors.

The paper presents practical and strategic recommendations in the following key areas:

  • Enhancing agricultural productivity
  • Improving infrastructure and logistics
  • Expanding market access
  • Facilitating access to finance
  • Strengthening policy and institutional frameworks

The document is structured into two parts, an Executive Summary for quick reference by decision-makers, and a Detailed Report for comprehensive understanding and implementation guidance. It was formally approved by the OPA Executive Council on 25th March 2025.

The first official copy was ceremonially handed over to the President of OPA Mr. Sujeewa Lal Dahanayake on 28th March 2025, ahead of its planned submission to key government stakeholders, including:

  • The Ministry of Agriculture
  • The Ministry of Plantation Industries
  • The Parliamentary Sectoral Oversight Committee on Agriculture (upon formation).

This initiative underscores OPA’s commitment to supporting national development through professionally driven, evidence-based policy contributions.