Sri Lanka Expo 2026 officially launched as a premier international trade exhibition, showcasing the island’s export potential and investment opportunities. Delegates emphasized its role in connecting exporters, global buyers, and investors for structured economic growth.
International trade exhibition positions Sri Lanka as South Asia’s investment hub
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB) officially inaugurated the Sri Lanka Expo 2026 on January 9, marking the island’s strategic push to attract global trade and investment. The launch event, held at Cinnamon Life at the City of Dreams in Colombo, introduced www.srilankaexpo.lk
, the official online platform allowing local exhibitors and international buyers to register and engage ahead of the exhibition.
Scheduled for June 18–21, 2026, at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Sri Lanka Expo 2026 will serve as a comprehensive showcase of the country’s export capabilities and investment potential. The exhibition aims to create a platform where exporters, investors, and policymakers converge to strengthen commercial ties and drive international market access.
The launch ceremony featured distinguished participation from Sri Lanka’s leadership, including Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti; Minister of Power and Energy Engineer Kumara Jayakody; Deputy Ministers Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Arun Hemachandra, and Eranga Weeraratne; and Secretary to the Ministry Mrs. Tilaka Jayasundara. Other attendees included the President’s Senior Adviser on Science and Technology Prof. Gomika Udugamasooriya, Chairman and CEO of SLEDB Mangala Wijesinghe, diplomats, industry representatives, and exporters from both public and private sectors.
Minister Handunnetti highlighted the strategic importance of the event, stating, “Sri Lanka Expo 2026 is not just an event; it is a strategic platform for our exporters to reach new markets, attract international buyers, and showcase the best of Sri Lanka. It is a platform where our policies, our products, and our people come together to create real business opportunities in international markets.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe emphasized the dual value proposition for both exporters and international participants: “For exporters, this Expo is an opportunity to expand into new markets, form strategic partnerships, and move up the value chain. For international buyers and investors, it is a chance to engage with Sri Lanka’s quality products, skilled talent, and resilient business environment.”
Sri Lanka Expo 2026 expects participation from approximately 750 local exporters and over 1,500 international buyers, investors, and media personnel. The exhibition is designed to provide extensive exposure to Sri Lanka’s diverse export industries, spanning industrial, agricultural, and service sectors.
Industrial exhibits will include apparel, textiles and fashion, gems and jewellery, boat building, engineering and automotive components, rubber and polymer products, electrical and electronic products, lifestyle and handicraft items, pharmaceutical products, and mineral-based goods.
Agricultural exports will feature tea, spices and concentrates, coconut-based products, fisheries products, processed foods and beverages, ayurvedic and herbal products, cut flowers, ornamental fish, fruits, and vegetables.
Service sector representation will highlight information and communication technology/business process management, maritime and offshore services, logistics, construction and renewable energy, wellness and healthcare, and other professional services.
Sri Lanka Expo 2026 will also integrate an investor forum, industry-specific sessions, structured business-to-business (B2B) meetings, fashion shows showcasing local designers, culinary demonstrations highlighting Sri Lankan cuisine, cultural programs, and live product demonstrations. Key partners for the exhibition include the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) and Sri Lankan Airlines, ensuring robust industry and logistical support.
The Expo aligns with Sri Lanka’s national export objectives, supporting the government’s ambition to achieve a USD 36 billion export target by 2030. By providing a structured international platform, Sri Lanka Expo 2026 aims to build investor confidence, showcase competitive advantages, and promote the country as a leading trade and investment hub in South Asia.
Beyond trade promotion, the exhibition emphasizes knowledge transfer, market intelligence sharing, and strategic networking. International buyers will have opportunities to assess product quality, operational capabilities, and innovation potential in Sri Lanka, while exporters gain direct feedback and access to new markets.
The introduction of a dedicated digital registration system through www.srilankaexpo.lk
streamlines engagement, allowing participants to schedule meetings, explore exhibitor portfolios, and plan visits efficiently. This digital integration enhances transparency, access, and business readiness ahead of the event.
With its multi-sectoral approach, Sri Lanka Expo 2026 reinforces the country’s commitment to sustainable economic growth, export diversification, and international collaboration. The event represents a key milestone in positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive trade and investment destination, capable of attracting high-value partnerships across industries.