Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Israel, Mr. Nimal Bandara, speaking exclusively to Ziradaily, emphasized that the initiative represents a major step toward positioning Sri Lankan products within the competitive Israeli market.
He noted that the growing interest in Sri Lankan spices, tea, coconut-based products, and processed foods has opened promising opportunities for exporters ready to meet international standards, particularly kosher compliance.
Ambassador Bandara expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort behind the exhibition. He acknowledged Dr. Anat Bernstein-Reich, Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in Northern Israel, for her continued support in facilitating trade ties.
He also recognized Mr. Joel Weinberger, Director for the South Asia Region of Kosher Food Certification Inc., whose leadership made the event possible.
The ambassador highlighted the commitment of Sri Lankan private-sector representatives including Mr. Jagath Kamalgoda of JMT Consortium and Dr. Rumesh Liyanage of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, whose participation underscored the strength of Sri Lanka’s agricultural innovation and export capability.
He also remarked on the cultural value added by the presence of Balangoda Ananda Mangala Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Tel Aviv Buddhist Temple, noting that spiritual and cultural presence strengthens community bonds abroad.
The energetic performance by Israel’s Thala Dance Group, which captivated a packed EXPO Hall, was acknowledged as a vibrant display of friendship between the two nations.
Ambassador Mr. Bandara described the exhibition as a timely platform for Sri Lankan exporters to build trust with Israeli buyers, highlighting that kosher certification often seen as a challenging standard has now become an achievable gateway for Sri Lankan products.
He stressed that sustained engagement, quality assurance, and reliable supply chains will be key to converting this momentum into long-term export growth.
Concluding his remarks, he reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation with Israel and expressed confidence that the success of this event would pave the way for expanded trade partnerships in the years ahead.
