Colombo, Sri Lanka – October 10, 2026
Sri Lanka has invited Indian business leaders, investors and buyers to participate in Sri Lanka Expo 2027, as the country seeks to strengthen bilateral economic relations and attract new investment across key industries.
The invitation was extended by Mahishini Colonne, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, during the conference on “Business Opportunities in BIMSTEC Countries”, held in New Delhi on October 5, 2026. The event was organised by the Millennial India International Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MIICCIA) and brought together senior diplomats, government officials and approximately 80 representatives from Indian trade and industry.
Sri Lanka Highlights Investment Opportunities
Addressing the conference, High Commissioner Colonne highlighted Sri Lanka’s strategic geographical location, established connectivity and long-standing economic relationship with India. She emphasised that both countries have significant potential to expand commercial partnerships and increase two-way investment.
Key sectors identified for cooperation included international trade, manufacturing, ports and logistics, tourism, renewable energy and digital services.
Sri Lanka aims to build on its existing economic connections with India by encouraging businesses to explore new markets, establish partnerships and develop stronger regional supply chains.
Sri Lanka Expo 2027 to Bring Global Businesses Together
Sri Lanka Expo 2027, the country’s flagship international trade exhibition, is scheduled to take place in Colombo from January 14 to 17, 2027.
The four-day event is expected to bring together Sri Lankan exporters, international buyers, investors, trade delegations and industry leaders. It will provide a platform for businesses to showcase products and services, identify potential suppliers, explore investment opportunities and establish new commercial relationships.
The exhibition is organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) under the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development.
According to the official Expo website, the event aims to attract more than 750 exhibitors, over 2,000 international buyers and participants from more than 50 countries.
Trade and Investment Relations with India
India remains a key economic partner for Sri Lanka, supported by geographical proximity, established trade links and strong people-to-people connections.
The two countries already benefit from the India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force in 2000. However, High Commissioner Colonne highlighted the importance of adapting economic cooperation to modern business requirements, including digital trade, regional production networks and more efficient supply chains.
She also highlighted the potential to strengthen investment links in both directions, allowing companies from Sri Lanka and India to benefit from complementary expertise, technology, capital and market access.
Opportunities in Tourism, Energy and Digital Services
Tourism, renewable energy and digital services were identified as sectors with considerable potential for further collaboration.
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry offers opportunities for investment in hospitality, travel services and related infrastructure, while the country’s solar and wind energy potential could attract investment in renewable energy projects.
The growing information technology and business services sectors also present opportunities for partnerships between Sri Lankan companies and Indian businesses seeking to expand their regional operations.
In addition, Sri Lanka’s strategic maritime location and the importance of the Port of Colombo create opportunities for Indian companies in shipping, warehousing, distribution and logistics services.
Strengthening Regional Economic Cooperation
The conference also highlighted the importance of stronger private-sector participation and business-to-business engagement among the seven member states of BIMSTEC: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Greater regional cooperation could help businesses identify new markets, improve trade connectivity and develop commercial partnerships across South and Southeast Asia.
Sri Lanka’s invitation to Indian businesses reflects its broader ambition to strengthen export growth, attract investment and position the country as a competitive destination for international trade.
With Sri Lanka Expo 2027 approaching, the exhibition is expected to offer Sri Lankan companies an important opportunity to connect with international buyers and investors, while enabling Indian businesses to explore new commercial opportunities in the island nation.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism – Sri Lanka; Sri Lanka Export Development Board.