Sri Lanka launches first national event calendar to boost industry

Colombo, April 24 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka’s first-ever national event calendar was launched in Colombo yesterday (23) under the patronage of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti.

The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s growing event management sector, which was valued at around Rs. 60 billion in 2025. The “Sri Lanka Events Calendar” has been developed by the Event Management Advisory Board with guidance from the Ministry, compiling major events taking place across the country.

The calendar is expected to serve as an official guide for both local and international events, including cultural festivals, sports events, conferences, exhibitions and high-level meetings, supporting tourism and industry promotion.

Addressing the launch, Minister Handunnetti said Sri Lanka’s geographical location offers strong potential for the sector. He noted that the government would provide necessary support to help the industry grow, attract foreign exchange and generate employment, with the aim of positioning Sri Lanka as a regional hub for event management.

A Diploma in International Event Management and Marketing was also introduced to provide formal education and training for those in the industry and new entrants.

The event was attended by Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe and several senior government officials, along with industry representatives.