Sri Lankan exporters have secured business opportunities worth approximately US$200,000 in the Maldivian market through their participation in the Hotel Asia Exhibition & International Culinary Challenge 2026, held in Hulhumalé from September 28 to 30.
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 a Sri Lanka Pavilion at the exhibition, enabling 20 Sri Lankan companies to showcase their products and services to Maldivian buyers, importers, distributors, and hotel and resort operators.
The participating companies focused on expanding exports in the food and beverage, hospitality, tourism and related sectors. Business discussions generated opportunities for export orders, distributorships, supply arrangements and long-term partnerships.
According to the EDB, participating exporters secured confirmed orders worth approximately US$50,000 for fruit purees, king coconut water, fruit beverages and hot beverages, including 3-in-1 milk tea premixes.
Meanwhile, orders worth a further US$150,000 for cinnamon and fruit purees are currently under negotiation.
Two participating companies also signed agreements with Maldivian importers, strengthening commercial ties between the two countries.
The exhibition provided Sri Lankan businesses with an opportunity to assess market requirements and engage directly with representatives from hotels, resorts and other industries, particularly in the Maldives’ expanding tourism and hospitality sector.
Sri Lanka Expo 2027 was also promoted among potential buyers and investors, while discussions were held with the Maldives Business Chamber to encourage greater participation and future business cooperation.
The EDB said the initiative would help strengthen Sri Lanka-Maldives trade relations and support Sri Lankan exporters in accessing new markets and developing sustainable international business partnerships.
