‘Build SL 2020 Expo’: Construction industry’s premier housing and construction exhibition

‘Build SL Housing & Construction Expo 2020’ was held for the 16th consecutive year from 2 to 4 October at the BMICH. The expo was aptly on the theme ‘Rebuild Sri Lanka’.

The Chamber of Construction Industry of Sri Lanka organised this premier exhibition as the apex representative body of the construction industry (established by an Act of the Parliament) which has a wide spectrum of membership of 13 professional bodies and over 300 companies as corporate members. 

The Chief Guest at the exhibition was Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, whose message was read by MP Premnath C. Dolawatte to the distinguished gathering. State Minister for Rural Housing, Construction and Building Materials Industries Indika Anuruddha and State Minister for Urban Development, Coast Conservation, Waste Disposal and Community Cleanliness Dr. Nalaka Godahewa were the Guests of Honour on this occasion.

The exhibition was visited by over 20,000 visitors during these three days. The exhibitors had something for everyone from construction heavy machinery to furniture and the latest house building materials to trendy household effects and decorations. The exhibition grounds was well laid out keeping in mind the ground reality of the COVID-19 pandemic and there was ample public walking space for leisurely viewing. 

This exhibition was made possible by those who believed that the construction industry required a focused nodal point to launch the revival of the industry for the country’s sake and those who came forward as invaluable sponsors. They were Siam City Cement Lanka Ltd., Hayleys Advantis Projects and Engineering Ltd., Sanken Overseas Ltd., Alumex PLC, Rhino Roofing Products Ltd., Ajax Engineering Ltd., Lex Duco Ltd., US Construction and Homes Ltd. and Sika Lanka Ltd.

A special feature that gave this event an international flavour was the ‘Job Fair’ conducted by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka that gave opportunity especially to the youth of Sri Lanka to be engaged in employment in projects carried out by their companies in Sri Lanka. This was a crowd puller too. 

The exhibition was a tremendous boost to revitalise the construction industry and provide a platform for manufacturers, suppliers of all things related to household and construction and for the discerning public to view new methods and construction materials and for the public to relate first-hand with materials and their suppliers.

The property developers in particular who took part in this exhibition were in for a bonanza with many sales confirmed. One developer was able to sell nearly 40 high end housing units during the exhibition to their utter amazement. All exhibitors were more than happy as they were able to attract many confirmed orders. Companies which missed out on taking part this time can join the next ‘Build SL Housing & Construction Expo 2021,’ due to be held in June 2021.