Sri Lanka Forms First Advisory Council for Event Management 📈

Sri Lanka has established its first-ever 25-member advisory council for the event management sector to drive structured growth and international competitiveness. This marks the first time the Ministry of Industries has formed a dedicated body for a service-oriented industry. • Economic Impact & Employment The sector generated approx. Rs. 60 Bn in revenue in 2025. It provides direct employment to 30,000 people and supports the livelihoods of over 400,000 families through indirect services and SMEs. • Growth Targets & Strategy Stakeholders aim to expand annual revenue to Rs. 250 Bn, leveraging a global market growing at 10-14% annually. The council, chaired by Saliya Weerasekara, will focus on positioning Sri Lanka as a top South Asian event destination. • Key Industry Priorities The council has identified five reform areas: Streamlining provincial and national permit processes. Protecting intellectual and creative rights for local talent. Establishing a National Events Calendar. Improving domestic air connectivity and developing international-grade venues in Colombo. • Context The move integrates event management with the national tourism strategy, emphasizing the export of local creative services and craftsmanship to the global stage.