Experience the spirit of Thailand: Trade and cultural fair opens at Havelock City Mall

Saturday, 7 March 2026 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn (left) and Thai Trade Centre Chennai Director Chek Jeenaphan officially open Thailand Week at Havelock City Mall

By Safna Malik

Colombo will witness a showcase of high-quality products and commercial opportunities with the official opening of ‘Thailand Week 2026’ yesterday at Havelock City Mall. This three-day event and business fair is designed to display premium Thai products while strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

The exhibition, which runs until 8 March, is organised by the Thai Trade Centre Chennai, an overseas office of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), in partnership with the Royal Thai Embassy, the Ministry of Commerce Thailand, and the Ministry of Development Strategies and International Trade of Sri Lanka. To mark the inauguration, the venue featured traditional Thai dance, Muay Thai performances, and a specialised cooking segment, providing a unique cultural and culinary experience for visitors.

The grand opening was honored by the presence of Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn and Thai Trade Centre Chennai Director Chek Jeenaphan. A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Thai SELECT logo to Siam House Restaurant Director Lionel Fernando, marking it as the first restaurant in Sri Lanka to be recognised for preserving Thai culinary identity.

“Thailand prioritises quality and sustainability in trade. This week provides a way for entrepreneurs to open new markets and set up dealerships for long-term trade,” said Thai Trade Centre Chennai Director Chek Jeenaphan at the event launch.

The sixth edition of the event features 30 selected companies from Thailand presenting over 100 quality products directly to the Sri Lankan market. These items cover a wide range of categories, including food and beverage, spa and wellness, and household items. Specific products on display include instant Thai food seasonings, noodles, biscuits, cosmetics, and herbal massaging oils.

The fair operates as a platform for Sri Lankan businesses shop and trade directly with Thai entrepreneurs, facilitating the creation of new business networks. This effort is supported by experts from the Governments and private sectors of Sri Lanka and Thailand who will be present to discuss trade and development opportunities.

Beyond business, the three-day event offers the Sri Lankan public an opportunity to experience Thai culture through food and performances. Organisers invite Sri Lankan consumers to collaborate and experience the best quality products from Thailand under one roof. Entrance is free.

- Pix by Sameera Wijesinghe