Sri Lanka is set to make a remarkable presence at Gulfood 2026, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious food and beverage exhibitions, organized by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB). With its participation, the island nation aims to showcase its rich food ingredients, premium-quality products, and dynamic export potential on a truly global stage.
EDB conducts over 20 international trade fairs with the objective of assisting Sri Lankan exporters and industries in expanding their business globally. At Gulfood 2026, the Sri Lanka pavilion facilitates approximately 50% SME participation, thereby enhancing their contribution to Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Gulfood is the biggest F&B sourcing and innovation show of the year and will take place across two mega venues- Dubai Exhibition Centre and Dubai World Trade Center. The event features over 8,500 exhibitors, 1.5 million products, 12 sectors, and participants from 195 countries, making it a truly global platform. Gulfood serves as a strategic hub for the food and beverage industry, connecting producers, exporters, and buyers, fostering innovation, and facilitating trade. For Sri Lankan exporters, it provides a unique opportunity to showcase high-quality products, strengthen international business relationships, and tap into high-potential markets across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region, while offering unparalleled opportunities for networking and trade.
Gulfood 2026 will take place across two mega venues—Dubai Exhibition Centre and Dubai World Trade Center—featuring over 8,500 exhibitors, 1.5 million products, 12 sectors, and participants from 195 countries. The event serves as a strategic platform for food and beverage sourcing and innovation, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking and trade.
Sri Lanka’s Country Pavilion, located at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City, will cover an impressive 510 square meters, marking the largest B2B country pavilion ever organized by Sri Lanka. This expansion reflects the growing global recognition and demand for Sri Lankan food and beverage products. A total of 61 Sri Lankan exporting companies will participate, representing a diverse array of sectors including 28 large companies
The Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region holds significant potential for Sri Lankan exports. In 2024, the country exported agricultural commodities worth US$ 1,381 million to the MEASA region, including food and beverage products valued at US$ 1,171.31 million. The broader Middle East and Africa food and beverage market was valued at approximately USD 133.68 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2024 to 2031, highlighting the region’s strong and growing demand for imported quality food products.
Source : Daily News