IDB’s National Food and Beverage Conference tomorrow

• Initiative aims to reshape Sri Lanka’s F&B sector to succeed in global markets

The Industrial Development Board’s (IDB) National Food and Beverage Conference, slated for 25 August from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Marino Beach Hotel in Colombo, will feature an eminent lineup of speakers to help reshape the Sri Lankan Food and Beverage (F&B) industry and grow its export potential. 

The National Food and Beverage Conference, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Industries (MOI), and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization’s (UNIDO) BESPA-FOOD project, funded by the European Union (EU), will explore the market potential for Sri Lanka’s F&B industries in international markets, establish a network between the industry, ministries, government departments, corporations, and other statutory and regulatory organisations associated with the industry. 

The speakers will include Finagle Lanka CEO Kushan Amarasinghe who will focus on the future of the F&B industry, Ceylon Plant Food Chairman Annes Junaid exploring the topic of ‘Expanding Horizons: Food and Beverage Looks for Growth’ and Nelna Agri Development Director Punya Nanayakkara speaking on unlocking potential in Sri Lanka’s exports of tropical fresh fruit and vegetables. 

Leveraging the insights from the three speakers, F&B industry experts, corporate leaders, policymakers, key government officials, and heads of Government institutions will join a panel discussion to explore the strategic direction for the development of Sri Lanka’s F&B industrial sector in line with global demand. 

UNIDO will also introduce attendees to the ‘call for proposals on technical assistance for agri-food enterprises’, which will capacitate value chains on tailored technical assistance that includes expert guidance, technology know-how and transfer, and networking opportunities. The program will strengthen farmer-producer organisations, processors, exporters, and agri-business providers to increase their productivity and growth. Specific focus will be given to businesses linked to the coconut, banana, vanilla, and cassava value chains as part of the BESPA-FOOD project. 

Link for registration: https://forms.gle/DqY1RmgPx5Lc4L2y8