Sri Lankan exporters secured confirmed orders worth US$50,000 and opened negotiations for a further US$150,000 at the Hotel Asia Exhibition and International Culinary Challenge 2026 in the Maldives.

Held from 28 to 30 September in Hulhumalé, the exhibition featured a Sri Lanka Pavilion organised by the Export Development Board in partnership with the Sri Lankan High Commission in the Maldives and the Sri Lanka Maldives Business Council.

Twenty Sri Lankan companies presented products and services to buyers, importers, distributors, hotel operators and resort representatives, highlighting opportunities across food and beverages, hospitality, tourism and related sectors.

Confirmed orders covered fruit purées, king coconut water, fruit beverages and hot beverages, including three-in-one milk tea premix. Negotiations worth approximately US$150,000 involve cinnamon and fruit purées.

Two participating companies also signed agreements with Maldivian importers, strengthening commercial links and creating scope for future supply arrangements.

The exhibition enabled exporters to establish contacts, respond to business enquiries and explore distributorships and longer-term partnerships. Discussions with hospitality industry representatives provided insights into buyer requirements and demand within the Maldivian market.

Participants also promoted Sri Lanka Expo 2027 to prospective buyers and investors, while engaging with the Maldives Business Chamber to encourage future participation and cooperation.

The initiative showcased the diversity of Sri Lankan suppliers and positioned the country as a reliable source of products and services.

The resulting orders, negotiations and importer agreements strengthened bilateral business relations, supporting efforts to expand market access and develop sustainable international partnerships for Sri Lankan exporters across the participating sectors.