Meet the Powerhouses Behind Sri Lanka’s Thriving Trade & Exhibition Industry
Sri Lanka has emerged as a dynamic player in South Asia’s B2B exhibition and trade fair circuit. From export-driven expos to sector-specific B2B shows in gems, ICT, construction, and food processing, the island nation has been consistently hosting impactful platforms for regional and global business engagement. Behind this growth is a network of visionary event organizers who shape the country’s economic dialogue through exhibitions, conferences, and buyer-seller meets.
Here are the Top 10 B2B Exhibition and Tradeshow Organizers in Sri Lanka you need to know:
1. Export Development Board (EDB) Sri Lanka
Type: Government Body
Flagship Event: Sri Lanka Expo
Overview: EDB is the apex state body promoting Sri Lanka’s exports. It organizes international B2B expos, virtual trade fairs, and sectoral business forums that connect local exporters with global buyers.
Strengths:
- Government support and policy advocacy
- Curated B2B matchmaking
- Strong international buyer delegations
2. Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA)
Flagship Event: FACETS Sri Lanka
Overview: SLGJA is the leading trade body for the island’s gem and jewelry industry. Their events attract luxury buyers, global gem dealers, and investors, making Sri Lanka a hotspot for precious stones.
Strengths:
- Access to Ceylon sapphires and mines
- Premium international audience
- Endorsed by global gem councils
3. Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC)
Flagship Event: Sri Lanka Economic Summit, Industry Dialogues
Overview: One of the oldest and most influential chambers in South Asia, CCC hosts policy-centric trade forums, business conclaves, and buyer-seller meets across sectors like energy, services, and logistics.
Strengths:
- Deep business-government connections
- Multisectoral engagement
- Ideal for investment and policy networking
4. Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA)
Flagship Event: Pro Food Pro Pack & Ag-Biz
Overview: SLFPA is the main driver of the country’s processed food and agri-tech exhibition space. Their events see high participation from FMCG, packaging, agro-industries, and exporters.
Strengths:
- Strong trade visitor turnout
- Focused B2B buyers from retail, HoReCa
- Collaboration with Ministry of Agriculture
5. Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS)
Flagship Event: INFOTEL
Overview: FITIS organizes Sri Lanka’s largest ICT-focused event—INFOTEL—aimed at promoting digital transformation, start-up innovation, and IT-BPM growth.
Strengths:
- Gateway for IT outsourcing
- Strong start-up engagement
- Tech adoption forums for SMEs
6. Ceylon Institute of Builders (CIOB)
Flagship Event: Build SL Housing & Construction Expo
Overview: CIOB is a professional organization leading Sri Lanka’s construction and infrastructure B2B expos. Their shows target architects, builders, EPC contractors, and material suppliers.
Strengths:
- Focus on urban infrastructure and smart cities
- Collaboration with UDA and local councils
- Platform for affordable housing technologies
7. CDC Events & Travels Pvt Ltd
Flagship Events: Hotel, Hospitality & Food Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka Plast
Overview: CDC is one of the most prominent private exhibition organizers in Sri Lanka. With over two decades of experience, they cover a wide range of sectors including hospitality, plastics, packaging, and consumer goods.
Strengths:
- Professional event execution
- Private sector engagement across South Asia
- Consistent international participation
8. Lanka Exhibition & Conference Services (LECS)
Flagship Events: Boat Show Sri Lanka | International Book Fair
Overview: LECS is known for organizing specialized exhibitions that highlight niche industries. They also co-organize events with international federations and trade bodies.
Strengths:
- Experience in both B2B and B2C segments
- Cross-sectoral coverage
- Partner to international trade fairs
9. Sri Lanka Association of Printers
Flagship Event: Print Sri Lanka Expo
Overview: A dedicated organizer in the printing, packaging, and signage space. Their expos serve manufacturers, design studios, publishers, and branding companies.
Strengths:
- Niche, high-quality participation
- Endorsed by international printing federations
- Strong local business traction
10. The Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL)
Flagship Event: Techno Sri Lanka
Overview: IESL’s Techno exhibition is a technology, engineering, and industrial innovation platform that drives B2B engagement among technical firms, automation providers, and academia.
Strengths:
- High footfall of engineers and tech buyers
- Live project showcases
- Knowledge sessions and industry awards
Bonus Mention: Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA)
While not a regular organizer, SLPA occasionally hosts Maritime & Logistics expos and is deeply involved in B2B partnerships at port-related tradeshows.
Final Take
Sri Lanka’s exhibition industry may be smaller in scale compared to regional giants, but its impact is powerful thanks to these focused and well-networked organizers. From government-backed trade missions to privately curated expos, these organizers are not just facilitators—they are enablers of economic growth, export promotion, and FDI attraction.
