Sri Lanka has appointed its first-ever advisory council to develop the event management industry, a sector recognised as one of the country’s leading new industries.
The council was established under the patronage of the Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi. It marks the first time the Ministry of Industries has set up an advisory body for the services sector.
Event management, identified as a creative industry for more than 30 years, generated Rs. 60 billion in 2025, providing 30,000 direct jobs and 80,000 indirect jobs, supporting over 400,000 families.
Authorities expect the industry to expand to Rs. 250 billion in the coming years. Globally, the sector is valued at US$1.5 trillion and grows at 101-14 percent annually.
The 25-member council includes representatives from the government, private, and academic sectors. Saliya Weerasekara, President of the Event Management Association, was appointed chairman.
Discussions focus on current challenges, future strategies, and positioning Sri Lanka as a South Asian hub for tourism-related events. Issues raised included streamlining permits, protecting creative rights, maintaining standards, establishing a national event calendar, and improving domestic air travel. Special attention was given to the need for suitable venues in Colombo for an international event.
Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara, senior ministry officials, designers and industry professionals attended the meeting.
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