Sri Lankan Exporters Secure US$50,000 in Orders at Maldives Trade Exhibition, Negotiate Further US$150,000
COLOMBO, October 9, 2026 — Sri Lankan exporters have secured approximately US$50,000 in confirmed orders and are negotiating a further US$150,000 in potential business following their participation at Hotel Asia Exhibition & International Culinary Challenge 2026 in the Maldives, strengthening export opportunities in a market supported by a growing tourism and hospitality industry.
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 at the exhibition, held from September 28 to 30 in Hulhumalé. The initiative brought together 20 Sri Lankan companies seeking to expand their presence in the Maldivian market.
The confirmed orders cover fruit purees, king coconut water, fruit beverages and hot beverages, including three-in-one milk tea premixes. Meanwhile, negotiations are continuing for potential orders worth approximately US$150,000 involving cinnamon and fruit purees, creating further prospects for Sri Lankan food and beverage exporters.
Two participating companies also signed agreements with Maldivian importers, establishing additional commercial links between suppliers and buyers. The agreements and ongoing negotiations could create opportunities for repeat orders, distribution arrangements and longer-term supply partnerships.
The Sri Lanka Pavilion provided exporters with direct access to Maldivian buyers, importers, distributors, hotel and resort operators, and other industry representatives. Companies used the platform to showcase their products and services, establish business contacts and explore commercial arrangements suited to the requirements of the local market.
The participation focused on food and beverages, hospitality, tourism and related industries, where reliable sourcing and consistent product quality are important for hotels and resorts. The exhibition also allowed Sri Lankan companies to obtain direct feedback on buyer requirements, product preferences and potential supply opportunities.
For Sri Lanka, the Maldives represents a market opportunity for exporters seeking to diversify their customer base and build stronger regional trade relationships. The confirmed orders demonstrate immediate commercial results, while the additional negotiations indicate the potential for further business development if discussions translate into completed contracts.
Beyond immediate sales, the EDB used the exhibition to promote Sri Lanka Expo 2027 among potential buyers and investors. Engagement with the Maldives Business Chamber also aimed to encourage greater business participation and strengthen commercial cooperation between the two countries.
The event forms part of the EDB’s broader efforts to help Sri Lankan companies enter new markets, connect with international buyers and develop sustainable export partnerships. Direct participation in specialised trade exhibitions can help businesses identify distributors, assess demand and build relationships with customers in target markets.
The EDB acknowledged the support of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in the Maldives, the Sri Lanka Maldives Business Council and other stakeholders in facilitating the participation of Sri Lankan companies.
With US$50,000 in confirmed orders and another US$150,000 under negotiation, Hotel Asia 2026 has delivered tangible commercial opportunities for participating exporters while opening further possibilities in the Maldives’ tourism-linked supply market.
