Rupee devaluation will have both a positive and challenging impact on Sri Lanka’s event management industry increasing affordability for foreign clients, boosting demand, and local revenue. However, it raises costs for imports. Adaptation and strategic responses are essential for competitiveness, Saliya Weerasekara, President Event Management Association (EMA) told Daily News Business participating in an exclusive interview.
He said although geopolitical tensions in the Gulf affect global travel, particularly the MICE sector, leading to cautious corporate spending and event planning shift, resilient destinations like Sri Lanka can capitalize on opportunities by enhancing infrastructure and diversifying markets.
The formal recognition of Event Management elevates the industry, offering visibility and support for tourism, business networking, and economic growth and achieving a Rs. 250 billion target requires public-private collaboration, investment in infrastructure, talent development, and embracing innovation to foster a competitive edge and enhance event experiences in Sri Lanka.
Weerasekara said the centralized Sri Lanka Events Calendar enhances event organization, boosts domestic tourism, supports local businesses, offers visibility for organizers, minimizes conflicts, and promotes Sri Lanka as a vibrant destination and aims to be the official gateway for cultural, entertainment, and business events, enhancing tourism by showcasing the island’s diverse experiences and encouraging year-round visitation.
The EMA Chief said the established Event Management Advisory Council aims to facilitate industry growth in Sri Lanka by streamlining event approval processes, protecting intellectual property, and addressing operational challenges, while promoting standards, skills development, and attracting international events.
He also cautioned that Sri Lanka must enhance infrastructure, including larger venues and improved connectivity, to attract global conferences and events. Investm ent in modern facilities and strengthened marketing will leverage its natural advantages for competitive positioning. The EMA aims to enhance professionalism and integrity in Sri Lanka’s expanding event industry by establishing transparent guidelines, promoting training, fostering collaboration, and ensuring ethical conduct for a reliable global destination.
Sri Lanka’s event management vision aims for a competitive, globally recognized industry, focusing on world-class infrastructure, skilled workforce, collaboration among stakeholders, and positioning the country as a leading MICE destination in South Asia, he added.
Source : Daily News
