The Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels participated in the European Parliament ‘Fair-Trade Breakfast-2024’, on November 13, highlighting Sri Lanka as one of the best ethical and sustainable sourcing destinations in the world.
It was organised by the ‘Fair Trade Advocacy’ Office in Belgium and hosted by the European Parliament’s ‘Fair Trade Working Group’ and its Chair, Bernd Lange, a Member of the European Parliament.
Officials of the Embassy with the support of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) participated.
A cross section of fair trade products manufactured by a number of Sri Lankan Fair-trade certified companies were showcased at this event, including tea, spices, coconut-based products and toys.
Ambassador Chandana Weerasena outlined the background of the diverse range of fair trade products in Sri Lanka, current development in the fair trade sector while highlighting the challenges faced by the sector. The Ambassador pointed out key areas that Sri Lanka needs support from relevant EU institutions and international fair trade organisations.
Managing Director at the Fair Trade Advocacy Office, Jorge Conesa de Lara said that securing fair trade structures based on mutually beneficial collaboration with producers, farming communities and partner countries must be central to the process when entering legislation to advance sustainable development.
A number of members of the European Parliament, International and European Fair-Trade Networks, Civil Society Organisations, and other Missions to the European Union were present.
