Sri Lankan exporters have established promising business opportunities in the Maldivian market following their participation in the Hotel Asia Exhibition and International Culinary Challenge 2026, held from September 28 to 30 in Hulhumalé, Maldives.

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the High Commission of Sri Lanka in the Maldives and the Sri Lanka Maldives Business Council, organised the Sri Lanka Pavilion, providing a platform for 20 Sri Lankan companies to showcase their products and services to international buyers and industry representatives.

The initiative aimed to strengthen Sri Lanka’s presence in the Maldivian market by promoting locally manufactured products and services across the food and beverage, hospitality, tourism and related sectors. The participating companies had opportunities to connect with importers, distributors, hotel and resort operators, and other potential business partners.

The exhibition generated encouraging commercial results for Sri Lankan exporters. Participating companies secured confirmed orders worth approximately US$50,000 for products including fruit purees, king coconut water, fruit beverages and hot beverages, such as three-in-one milk tea premixes. In addition, orders valued at approximately US$150,000 for cinnamon and fruit purees remain under negotiation.

Two participating companies also signed agreements with Maldivian importers, creating further opportunities to expand their businesses and establish long-term commercial relationships in the market.

Beyond immediate sales, the exhibition provided valuable opportunities for Sri Lankan companies to understand the requirements and purchasing preferences of the Maldivian hospitality industry. Direct engagement with hotel and resort representatives enabled exporters to explore potential supply arrangements and identify opportunities to meet the growing demand for quality products and services.

The Sri Lankan delegation also used the event to promote Sri Lanka Expo 2027 among potential buyers and investors. Engagement with the Maldives Business Chamber further supported efforts to encourage future business cooperation and strengthen commercial connections between the two countries.

The participation at Hotel Asia 2026 reflects the EDB’s continued efforts to help Sri Lankan businesses expand into international markets, increase export opportunities and build sustainable partnerships. By connecting local enterprises with overseas buyers, such initiatives aim to improve market access and strengthen the competitiveness of Sri Lankan products in regional markets.

The successful participation also highlights the potential for closer trade relations between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, particularly in sectors linked to tourism and hospitality, where reliable suppliers and high-quality products remain important to business growth.