The World EXPO 2020, one of the largest international exhibitions in the world will be held in Dubai from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022, creating a platform to showcase the greatest innovations that have shaped the world we live in today.
Joining hands with this extraordinary and important experience, The National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka, the exclusive Chamber representing Sri Lankan Exporters is spearheading a trade exhibition concurrently, under the banner “Sri Lanka Export Brands” to showcase Sri Lankan Export Products and Services. This exhibition will be held from 17th to 20th February 2022. (Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday) forming the ideal platform for Sri Lanka to create awareness for products and services and explore the immense opportunities of the Middle Eastern Region.
The NCE has secured premises within the Dubai Exhibition Center (DEC) located within the Expo 2020 Dubai site. The DEC is a state-of-the-art multipurpose venue, spread across 45,000 sq.m. Through world-class hospitality services and a transformative atmosphere. DEC will host the “Sri Lanka Export Brands” exhibition.
Updating the media, Shiham Marikar, SG-CEO of the Chamber stated that the NCE will be offering standard Exhibition Booths for potential Exhibitors. Adding more value, for the convenience of the Exhibitor, other value-added services such as discounted rates for hotel accommodation in Dubai, airfare and assistance to obtain Visas will also be provided by the NCE.
The Chamber is currently coordinating with a leading local bank to partner with the event to extend financial assistance to potential exhibitors. We are negotiating with a local bank to provide a loan to cover the event-related expenses at a concessionary interest rate with minimum collateral, he further stated.
The NCE has already commenced a powerful promotional campaign in coordination with the Sri Lankan Missions and Trade Chambers in the Gulf Region to create awareness for the event and they will invite potential buyers in those respective countries as well to visit the “Sri Lanka Export Brands” exhibition.
Marikar highlighted the support already extended by the Sri Lankan Embassy in the UAE and the Consul General based in Dubai in promoting this event. The NCE and its member exporters place a high note of appreciation for the role played by the Sri Lankan Mission in the UAE in terms of assisting the NCE in this process.
“The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the UAE Malraj De Silva, and Nalinda Wijerathna, Consul General of Sri Lanka, Dubai & Northern Emirates are playing a vital role from the initial stage of planning the event which is praiseworthy”, he stated.
Further emphasizing the respective roles played by various stakeholders towards making this event a success, Marikar also commended the role played by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotional Bureau, who coordinates with the EXPO organizers in securing the venue, event dates and other logistical aspects.
The Sri Lankan Business Council in Dubai & Northern Emirates, an organization consisting of Sri Lankan Entrepreneurs and Senior Professionals in the UAE with a mission to maintain, support, promote and encourage trade, investment, technical and economic co-operation, employment and tourism between Sri Lanka and the UAE has partnered with the NCE to promote the event and connect businesses with the Exhibiting Companies.
Through these efforts and strategic event dates coinciding with Gulf Food Expo 2020, we expect a higher number of regional and international visitors and UAE nationals to visit the exhibition, Mr Marikar added.
Due to the adverse effects caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, Sri Lankan exporters are experiencing numerous challenges in sustaining export revenue and growth. However, remaining optimistic and upbeat, the World Expo provides a greater platform for Sri Lankan exporters to reach the right people, expand the business and develop the global network whilst exploring the immense opportunities of the MENASA region.
The Chamber is confident that this initiative will open up fresh avenues for the country’s exports to reach greater heights by expanding the global market share. Staying true to its greater mission of supporting the country’s export sector, the Chamber is encouraging exporters to join this international event to reach new markets, meet new people and cultures.
Sri Lankan Companies interested in participating are requested to email to nce@nce.lk to receive updates on the event.