Sri Lanka Positions as Regional Marine Hub at 9th International Boat Show 📈

The Boat and Marine Show 2026, held at Port City Colombo from Jan 30 to Feb 1, has concluded as South Asia’s premier marine industry event, signaling a strategic push for nautical tourism and export promotion. • Event Overview The 9th edition saw a significant expansion since its 2008 inception, organized by the Chamber of Marine Industries and Sri Lanka Tourism with EDB support. It functioned as a dual-purpose platform for trade and lifestyle, targeting high-net-worth individuals and global investors. • Sector Highlights • Boat & Shipbuilding: Showcased local and international manufacturers, focusing on yachts, composite materials, and repair solutions. • Marine Tourism: Highlighted diving, snorkeling, and whale watching to diversify the tourism portfolio beyond traditional land-based attractions. • Infrastructure: Discussions centered on marina development and yacht charter services to establish Sri Lanka as a regional maritime center. • Global Participation International delegations attended from key markets including India, Singapore, South Korea, Germany, the UK, and the Middle East. This provided local exhibitors direct access to global buyers and potential joint-venture partners. • Strategic Impact The government has designated this event as a priority platform for investment attraction. By leveraging its marine biodiversity and shipwrecks, Sri Lanka aims to enhance employment in the marine sector and drive sustainable ocean-based economic growth.