Sri Lanka’s Food Export Strategy Shines at Gulfood 2026
As the global food trade exceeds USD 2 trillion annually, consistency, traceability, and meeting buyer expectations are becoming paramount for exporting nations. In this evolving landscape, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a key market for Sri Lanka, ranking among its top ten export destinations and serving as a crucial gateway to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Key Milestone at Gulfood 2026
Sri Lanka’s participation at Gulfood 2026 was a significant event, organized by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB). The country impressively showcased its largest national pavilion yet, covering 510 square meters at the Dubai Exhibition Centre. Featuring 61 exporters, including 33 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and several first-time international participants, this pavilion acted as a central hub for trade activities, buyer meetings, and market engagement. Sri Lanka’s commitment to value-added and branded food products remained at the forefront of this showcase.
Impressive Export Growth
The timing of the event could not have been better. Early 2025 saw Sri Lanka experiencing an astonishing 414% year-on-year increase in tea exports to the UAE in January. This surge highlights the continued premium demand for Ceylon tea. Additionally, coconut-based products, such as oil, milk powder, and cream, maintained strong performance during the first quarter of 2025. While processed and packaged food exports experienced some month-to-month fluctuations, the overall trend was upward. In 2024, total exports from Sri Lanka to the UAE reached USD 334.63 million, with food items like tea packets, cocoa preparations, desiccated coconut, and coconut milk powder making up a significant portion.
Diverse Offerings on Display
At Gulfood 2026, Sri Lankan exhibitors showcased an extensive range of value-added products. These included various premium tea formats, cinnamon and spice derivatives, coconut-based ingredients, processed foods, confectionery, bakery items, as well as ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meals. To further illustrate the versatility of Sri Lankan ingredients, live culinary demonstrations were held, reinforcing the country’s focus on quality, innovation, and consistent supply—a critical aspect for international buyers.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Highlighting the significance of this participation, Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman & CEO of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, stated, “Gulfood 2026 served as a platform for us, emphasizing the UAE’s importance as a priority market for our food and agricultural exports. Buyer engagement in sectors such as tea and coconut products indicates a growing demand for quality products that can be traced back to reliable sources. We’re keen on establishing long-term partnerships rather than short-term transactions.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Janak Badugama, Director of Export Agriculture at the EDB, pointed out the solid response from the UAE market toward Sri Lanka’s agricultural exports, especially in premium and processed categories. The increasing tea exports and sustained interest in coconut products underscore the UAE’s appetite for unique offerings. Events like Gulfood are essential, enabling exporters to connect directly with potential buyers.
Looking to the Future: Sri Lanka EXPO 2026
Building on the successes noted in Dubai, the EDB is excitedly preparing for Sri Lanka EXPO 2026, set to occur from June 18 to 21, 2026, at the BMICH in Colombo. This expo is poised to be Sri Lanka’s premier trade and investment platform, featuring more than 700 exhibition stalls and expecting between 1,000 to 1,500 international buyers. Offering a diverse scope—including agricultural goods, industrial products, and export services—the event will also host an investment forum and sector-specific dialogues, giving international attendees a comprehensive understanding of Sri Lanka’s export landscape and rich cultural heritage.
Preparations for Gulfood 2027
In addition to the immediate future, Sri Lanka is gearing up for Gulfood 2027 with plans for increased participation. The EDB aims to bolster support for emerging exporters and innovative producers while continuing to deepen buyer engagement. Strengthening Sri Lanka’s image as a dependable source of high-quality, value-added food products remains a key goal.
Emphasizing Brand Sri Lanka
Through its international trade initiatives, Sri Lanka persists in advancing the “Brand Sri Lanka” narrative—focused on quality, sustainability, heritage, and innovation. The exhibitors highlighted their adherence to globally recognized food safety standards and responsible sourcing practices that reinforce buyer confidence in their products.
With the UAE accounting for roughly 80% of food imports in the GCC, its strategic significance for Sri Lanka cannot be overstated. Dubai’s ports facilitate connectivity to over 150 global destinations, positioning the country as a pivotal hub for regional and international trade expansion. This partnership is expected to flourish as both nations navigate the complexities of the global market together.
