Showcasing the island’s potential as South Asia’s emerging MICE powerhouse
The Sri Lanka MICE Expo 2025 concluded on a high note after five days of vibrant networking, collaboration, and business exchange that brought together global and local stakeholders to reinforce Sri Lanka’s position as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) – the national tourism organization under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism – the event ran from September 22 to 26, 2025, featuring a series of impactful sessions, business forums, B2B meetings, networking events, and familiarisation tours across Colombo, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.
High-Level Inauguration and Thought Leadership
The Expo officially commenced on September 23, 2025, at Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams, Colombo, one of South Asia’s largest integrated resort developments. The event was inaugurated by Mrs. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, in the presence of senior government officials, ambassadors, and tourism industry leaders.
The proceedings began with a Welcome Reception and Business Forum at Cinnamon Grand Colombo on September 22, featuring an engaging panel discussion on “The Future of Sri Lanka MICE Tourism in a Changing World.” Moderated by Mr. Dileep Mudadeniya, Chairman of the Tourism Advisory Committee, the discussion featured Mr. Dheera Hettiarachchi (Chairman, SLCB and SLITHM), Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam (Chairman, SLTDA and SLTPB), Mr. Saminda Perera (Head of Marketing, SriLankan Airlines), and Mrs. Bobby Jordan Hansen (Vice President, SLAITO).
The panel explored emerging opportunities, regional competitiveness, infrastructure expansion, and policy-level support needed to elevate Sri Lanka’s MICE appeal.
“Our goal is to make Sri Lanka one of Asia’s most sought-after MICE destinations. The collaboration between government, private sector, and international partners is key to that journey,” said Mr. Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, during his remarks.
Global Participation and B2B Success
This year’s Expo drew exceptional international interest, with over 500 applications received from MICE operators, travel agents, and media from more than 45 countries. Of these, 115hosted international MICE and travel operators and 15 international media representatives from 30 countries were selected to attend.
On the domestic front, more than 110 Sri Lankan vendors, including DMCs, event organisers, hotels, resorts, and transport providers, showcased their products and services. Together, they participated in over 10,000 B2B meetings, generating substantial business leads and partnerships.
The event also highlighted India’s key role as Sri Lanka’s strongest tourism source market. More than 40 Indian operators and 5 Travel Media representatives are attended, underscoring growing cross-border business potential. SriLankan Airlines’ strategic air connectivity – handling nearly 60% of outbound and inbound India traffic – was recognised as a crucial enabler of future MICE growth.
“India remains pivotal to our MICE strategy due to proximity, connectivity, and shared cultural ties,” noted Mr. Saminda Perera of SriLankan Airlines.
Showcasing Sri Lanka’s MICE Infrastructure and Experiences
Beyond the meetings and discussions, international delegates were introduced to Sri Lanka’s exceptional blend of modern infrastructure, natural beauty, and rich culture. Cinnamon Life, ITC Ratnadipa, and The Marquee at Port City hosted various plenaries and networking sessions, while Earl’s Regency Kandy staged the grand Farewell Dinner on September 24, attended by over 150 delegates, including 50 international media representatives.
“This farewell evening in Kandy is not just a celebration of the Expo’s success but also a testament to Sri Lanka’s ability to host world-class events in iconic settings,”said Mr. Dheera Hettiarachchi at the closing ceremony.
Delegates also embarked on familiarisation tours to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, exploring cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and luxury venues suitable for international conferences and incentive programs.
Innovation, Sustainability, and Policy Support
The discussions throughout the Expo placed strong emphasis on sustainability, digital innovation, and human resource development – key pillars of Sri Lanka’s future MICE roadmap.
“The world of business events is changing rapidly. Our focus is on developing sustainable, experience-led, and technology-driven solutions to attract next-generation travelers and event organisers,” said Mr.Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
The government reaffirmed its support through policy-level initiatives such as visa liberalisation, infrastructure investment, and regional MICE promotion, along with incentives for event organisers to host international gatherings year-round.
Showcasing Sri Lankan Hospitality
From the pre-opening dinner at Cinnamon Grand Colombo to the farewell gala at Earl’s Regency Kandy, the Expo showcased Sri Lanka’s world-renowned hospitality, culture, and culinary diversity. Delegates praised the seamless coordination, scenic event settings, and immersive cultural experiences.
The Earl’s Regency Hotel, nestled along the Mahaweli River,offered a fitting finale to the event with a blend of elegance, luxury, and traditional Sri Lankan warmth.
Since its inception in 2021, the Sri Lanka MICE Expo has evolved from a virtual platform into one of South Asia’s most important annual MICE gatherings. The 2025 edition marked a major milestone, signalling the nation’s strong post-pandemic recovery and reaffirming its position as Asia’s emerging MICE hub.
“Sri Lanka MICE Expo 2025 was not just an event – it was a statement of confidence, capability, and collaboration,” said Mr. Dileep Mudadeniya, summing up the week’s proceedings.“It has successfully positioned Sri Lanka as a destination where business meets inspiration.”
Sri Lanka MICE Expo 2025 concluded as a resounding success- uniting government, industry, and international partners under one vision: to make Sri Lanka a global leader in business events tourism.
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