The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) has partnered with the Department of Integrated Design at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Moratuwa (UoM) to launch an Innovative Packaging program tailored for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
This collaborative effort, targeting SMEs concluded with a display of packaging products developed by Moratuwa University students and the SMEs at the Design Code 2023 event, marking a pivotal moment for Sri Lankan exporters.
The initiative began with a call for applications that attracted interest from SME companies. Following a rigorous selection process, the collaboration between EDB and UoM focused on identifying and supporting SME exporters dealing with fruits, nuts and vegetables exporters, aiming to provide them with innovative packaging solutions tailored for the European market.
Seven student teams worked with the SMEs, to develop packaging solutions perfectly suit the demands of the European market. The emphasis was not only on aesthetics but also on functionality and compliance with international standards. Over several months, numerous sessions and workshops were conducted at the EDB and the University of Moratuwa. These sessions facilitated an exchange of ideas, ensuring that the final packaging solutions were not only innovative but also aligned with the specific requirements of the European market.
The culmination of this program took place at the Design Code 2023 event, where the developed packaging solutions were showcased. The four-day event provided a platform for SMEs to witness the unveiling of their enhanced packaging designs, fostering a collaborative environment and knowledge exchange. This collaboration between the EDB and the University of Moratuwa signifies a concerted effort to boost the competitiveness of Sri Lankan SMEs in international markets. By leveraging academic expertise and industry insights, the program not only enhances the packaging capabilities of participated SMEs but also positions Sri Lanka as a hub for innovative and sustainable packaging practices.
As these SMEs take their enhanced packaging solutions to the global stage, the impact of this collaborative initiative is anticipated to resonate in the international business arena.
