Sri Lanka unveils comprehensive National Event Calendar
Daily FT: The Event Management Association (EMA) of Sri Lanka recently unveiled the official Sri Lanka Event Calendar at a ceremony held at the Shangri-La Colombo. Developed by the Event Management Advisory Committee under the guidance of the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry, the calendar is a centralised digital platform designed to serve as the definitive guide for all major international and local happenings, ranging from cultural festivals to international sporting fixtures and high-level corporate MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events.
The event was honored by the presence of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara. Their attendance underscored the Government’s recognition of the event industry as a vital pillar of the national economy and entrepreneurial landscape.
Speaking at the landmark event, EMA President Saliya Weerasekera hailed the day as a historic turning point for the industry. “Having weathered years of challenges as a united family, we are proud to launch two initiatives that will redefine our future,” Weerasekera stated. He announced the official Sri Lanka Event Calendar, to showcase the nation’s vibrant culture to the world, and the Diploma in International Event Management and Marketing Studies; a premier qualification that bridges the gap between academic theory and hands-on industry experience through EMA member companies.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka is strengthening its position as a dynamic destination for global events with the launch of the national event calendar by the Event Management Association of Sri Lanka. This initiative reflects the steady growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and its increasing focus on positioning itself as a competitive MICE destination. Backed by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the calendar enhances coordination, visibility, and planning across the events sector, making it easier for international organisers and investors to engage with the country’s expanding event landscape. Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean, combined with modern hospitality infrastructure and a rich cultural offering, provides a strong foundation for further growth in the MICE sector. As global demand for unique and well-connected event destinations rises, Sri Lanka is well-placed to capture new opportunities. For foreign businesses/investors, this presents a compelling entry point into tourism and event-related ventures – from event management and venue development to hospitality services and destination marketing. With continued industry development and growing international interest, Sri Lanka’s MICE sector offers promising potential for long-term investment and collaboration.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20260506/Z_4 |