Sri Lanka showcases world-class MICE facilities to international buyers

PIX BY NISAL BADUGE

Sri Lanka stepped up its bid to become a leading destination for business events with the launch of Sri Lanka MICE Expo 2025 in Colombo yesterday.

Held at Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams, the event brought together over 115 international MICE and travel operators and media representatives from 30 countries. The expo provides a platform for local and international stakeholders to display products, services and innovations, while fostering business networking and collaboration. B2B sessions are expected to facilitate more than 10,000 meetings, connecting over 110 local vendors with global buyers.

The expo was inaugurated by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and is organided by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), the national tourism organisation under the Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry. The event aimed to showcase the country’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) capabilities to a global audience.

The programme kicked off with a Business Forum and Welcome Reception at Cinnamon Grand Colombo on September 22, followed by the official Opening Ceremony and B2B sessions at Cinnamon Life on September 23 and concluded with a Gala Dinner at The Marquee, Port City. 

The Business Forum included a high-level panel discussion on ‘The Future of Sri Lanka MICE Tourism in a Changing World’, underscoring the country’s strategic vision for the sector.

Post-event, the hosted buyers will participate in a familiarisation tour organised by the SLCB, highlighting the central region of Sri Lanka. The tour is designed to showcase the island’s world-class MICE facilities, luxury hotels, modern infrastructure, stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage—positioning Sri Lanka as an ideal destination for organisations seeking both professional and vibrant event settings.

With state-of-the-art venues, bespoke event solutions and a skilled workforce, Sri Lanka is presenting itself as Asia’s emerging MICE hub. SL-MICE Expo 2025 aims to generate economic opportunities, attract investment and leave a lasting impact on the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors.