Sri Lanka exports are set to gain momentum as Vietnam offers free space at key trade shows. The move aims to enhance bilateral trade, strengthen business cooperation, and open opportunities for Sri Lankan suppliers in Southeast Asian markets.
Sri Lanka exports get a boost as Vietnam provides free trade show participation
Vietnam has announced that it will provide free exhibition space to Sri Lanka in major international trade fairs as part of efforts to strengthen economic ties. The initiative was confirmed during the visit of Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Phan Thi Thang, to Colombo, highlighting Vietnam’s commitment to fostering practical trade cooperation with Sri Lanka.
Bilateral trade between the two nations reached US$279 million in 2024 and US$224.5 million through October 2025. During a visit by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to Vietnam, both countries set an ambitious target of US$1 billion in bilateral trade, reflecting growing commercial ambitions and shared economic interests.
The third meeting of the Viet Nam–Sri Lanka Joint Sub-committee on Trade was held on December 9 in Colombo, chaired by Deputy Minister Thang and Sri Lanka’s Secretary of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security, K A Vimalenthirarajah. During the meeting, both sides discussed measures to expand cooperation across eight key sectors, with business communities at the center of the collaboration.
“We agreed on several important measures to promote trade and investment relations and expand substantive cooperation,” Deputy Minister Thang told attendees at a business forum held at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. “Effectiveness depends on active and creative participation from the business communities of both countries.”
Vietnam expressed readiness to support Sri Lankan suppliers in accessing its markets. Vu Ba Phu, Director General of the Viet Nam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE), announced that Sri Lankan businesses would be welcome to participate in Vietnam’s Four Season trade fairs annually, with exhibition space provided free of charge. This initiative allows Sri Lankan exporters to showcase products directly to Vietnamese companies and supermarket chains, facilitating partnerships and trade agreements.
Opportunities for Sri Lanka exports include tea, spices such as cinnamon, seafood for processing and re-exports, rubber, and other commodities. While Vietnam produces some of these goods, its open economic system allows consumers to access products from any country, providing a favorable environment for Sri Lankan suppliers. In contrast, Sri Lanka faces higher import barriers and market access challenges due to concentrated business control and restrictive policies.
Vietnam’s trade strategy is further supported by its 17 free trade agreements, which grant businesses access to global markets and reduce trade restrictions. The joint committee also discussed organizing a Viet Nam–Sri Lanka Logistics Business Forum, leveraging Sri Lanka’s strategic location as a potential logistics hub for Southeast Asian trade. Vietnam Airlines plans to launch direct flights from Vietnam to Sri Lanka in August 2026, enhancing connectivity for trade and business exchanges.
Officials noted that logistical challenges, including limited direct sea routes and some regulatory barriers such as customs and sanitary requirements, need to be addressed in future discussions. By streamlining these processes, both countries aim to facilitate smoother trade flows and reduce costs for exporters.
Ambassador of Viet Nam to Sri Lanka, Trinh Thi Tam, encouraged Sri Lankan businesses to engage with the embassy for support and guidance. “The Embassy welcomes all Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to discuss proposals and recommendations for deeper cooperation,” she said.
Vietnam’s growing middle class, rising domestic demand, and economic openness create fertile ground for Sri Lanka exports. Complementary trade opportunities include rice varieties, animal feed, and other agricultural products, demonstrating the potential for mutually beneficial economic growth. With free trade expo space and stronger business links, Sri Lanka exporters have a platform to expand into dynamic Southeast Asian markets.