Sri Lanka uses Gulfood 2026 platform to boost food and beverage exports
Sri Lanka leveraged its presence at Gulfood 2026 to strengthen its global food footprint, promote value-added products, and expand export opportunities across the MEASA region (Middle East, Africa, and South Asia), according to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB).
Speaking at the event, Janak Badugama, Director – Export Agriculture at EDB, said the country’s participation reflects a deliberate strategy to position Sri Lanka as a reliable supplier of premium, innovative, and sustainable food and beverage products tailored to evolving regional demand.
The Sri Lankan pavilion featured 61 companies, including a significant number of SMEs and first-time exporters, highlighting the country’s push to broaden its export base and support smaller businesses in entering global markets.
EDB said it has supported SME internationalisation through pre-fair training programmes, market intelligence, and partial cost assistance, enabling smaller producers to showcase products alongside established exporters, connect with international buyers, and build long-term commercial relationships.
A major focus this year was on value-added and differentiated products, including premium coconut-based derivatives, herbal beverages, and ready-to-eat foods. Officials said these categories demonstrate Sri Lanka’s shift from commodity exports toward branded, market-driven solutions aligned with global consumer preferences for health, convenience, authenticity, and traceability.
Sri Lanka outlined clear performance targets for the exhibition, aiming to secure $20–30 million in trade, connect with 30–40 international buyers, introduce 10–15 new products, and enable 8–10 SMEs to enter the MEASA market for the first time. Success metrics include confirmed orders, qualified trade inquiries, new market access, and sustained buyer partnerships beyond the exhibition.
EDB noted that international trade shows such as Gulfood play a central role in its long-term export diversification strategy by combining live product demonstrations, business matchmaking, and unified national branding under the “Brand Sri Lanka” banner. Preparations are already underway to expand participation and impact at Gulfood 2027.
