SLASSCOM AI Asia Summit 2026 explores what comes after experimentation
Daily FT: SLASSCOM’s flagship AI Asia Summit returns to Colombo on 12 November 2026, bringing together regional and global voices to explore how organisations and individuals can move beyond AI experimentation and turn emerging capabilities into meaningful business, workforce and societal impact.
As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves from experimentation into a strategic priority, the conversation is shifting from whether organisations should adopt AI to how they can use it responsibly, effectively and sustainably. Against this backdrop, the 7th edition of SLASSCOM’s AI Asia Summit 2026 will take centre stage in Colombo under the theme “AI: The Multiplier.”
Bringing together industry leaders, technology innovators, policymakers, academics and professionals from Sri Lanka, Asia and beyond, the Summit will feature international speakers, expert insights and real-world case studies, alongside thought leadership, industry dialogue, innovation showcases and opportunities for networking across the AI ecosystem.
SLASSCOM Chairperson Sampath Jayasundara said: “AI is no longer simply a technology conversation. It is changing how businesses operate, how people work and how economies compete. Sri Lanka has a real opportunity here, but success will depend on whether we build the skills, culture and safeguards needed to use AI responsibly. AI Asia Summit 2026 is designed to move the conversation beyond experimentation and towards practical, lasting value.”
The Summit’s theme, “AI: The Multiplier,” reflects a broader shift in how artificial intelligence is being understood. Rather than viewing AI solely as a productivity tool, the Summit will explore how it can amplify human capability, reshape operating models, support innovation and create new opportunities for organisations and economies.
A key focus will be The Economics of AI in 2026, examining how organisations can achieve stronger returns through efficient AI infrastructure. This will be complemented by Beyond the Hype: Real ROI and Cost Governance, which will explore AI FinOps, implementation costs, governance and the economics of sustainable AI adoption.
As AI capabilities continue to evolve, The Agentic Age will examine the shift from prompt-based interactions towards autonomous AI agents and multi-agent systems, and what this evolution could mean for the way organisations operate, make decisions and deliver value.
The Summit will also place people at the centre of AI transformation through Building an AI-Ready Culture, exploring workforce transformation, responsible AI and effective human-AI collaboration. Looking ahead, The Next Frontier will consider emerging AI trends, digital sovereignty and what organisations can expect as the technology landscape develops through 2027 and beyond.
Complementing the plenary discussions will be industry-focused breakout sessions covering Finance, Healthcare and Life Sciences, and Manufacturing and Supply Chain. These sessions will allow participants to explore the practical applications, challenges and potential of AI across key sectors.
Supported by Nations Trust Bank as Corporate Sponsor, AI Asia Summit 2026 will bring together diverse perspectives on how AI can shape the future of organisations, workforces and economies,while advancing responsible adoption and practical, lasting impact.OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s expanding digital economy is creating new business/investment opportunities for foreign businesses and investors in AI, software development, automation and technology services, as the country seeks to establish itself as an emerging business destination in South Asia. The return of SLASSCOM’s AI Asia Summit to Colombo on 12 November 2026 highlights the growing role of AI in the country’s economic transformation. The summit will bring together international technology leaders, investors, policymakers and businesses to explore AI applications, workforce development and responsible adoption. Business/investment opportunities span AI-powered financial services, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture and customer support. Foreign companies can also explore software development, cloud computing, data centres, cybersecurity and AI training, supporting domestic digitalisation and exports to international markets. Sri Lanka’s skilled workforce and established information technology and business process management sectors provide a foundation for developing AI-enabled services. International companies could establish regional technology centres, partner with local startups, outsource specialised operations or develop AI products for global markets. Emerging technologies such as autonomous AI agents, predictive analytics and intelligent automation could create further opportunities to improve productivity and introduce new digital services. Sri Lanka’s ambition to develop a US$5 billion digital economy underscores the potential for technology-led investment. Realising this goal will require capital, talent development, supportive policies and a predictable regulatory environment. For international businesses, Sri Lanka offers an opportunity to combine local technical expertise with global knowledge and market access. Greater foreign investment and international partnerships could help position the country as a regional hub for AI development, digital services and technology innovation.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20261015Z_4 |