Monday Sep 08, 2025
Monday Sep 08, 2025
Monday, 8 September 2025 02:34 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eng. Eranga Weeraratne (left) and FITIS Chairman Dr. Dayan Rajapakse exchanging the MoU. Others (from left): FITIS Immediate Past Chairman Indika De Zoysa, Digital Economy Ministry Secretary Waruna Sri Dhanapala, FITIS Senior Vice Chairman Channa de Silva and INFOTEL 2025 Chairman Thariq Sanoon
By Safna Malik
INFOTEL 2025, organised by the Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS), is set to take place from 7 to 9 November 2025 at the BMICH. With the theme of “Fuelling the Digital Economy,” the exhibition aims to promote digitisation across various sectors. Since its inception in 1992, the long-running event has become the country’s premier national ICT expo, bringing together new technology and solutions for both businesses and the general public.
Speaking at the official launch of INFOTEL 2025, Digital Economy, Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne, outlined the Government’s broader digital transformation strategy. He said the Ministry is focusing on a nationwide awareness campaign to promote digital transformation and finalise key national policies. In line with its key policies, the Ministry officially announced September as “Digital Month,” with a “100 Days of Digital Program” already underway to accelerate Sri Lanka’s entry into the digital era. Weeraratne said, “INFOTEL 2025 will not only offer the public a firsthand look at new technologies but also strengthen the partnerships required to advance the nation toward its $ 15 billion digital economy target.”
He explained the initiatives planned for “Digital Month,” saying the Ministry will focus on promoting financial technology (FinTech) through a landmark summit, enhanced digital payment infrastructure, and initiatives to foster the startup ecosystem. He added that this strategic push aligns with the nation’s broader “Digital Revenue Economy” strategy. Furthermore, he noted that the main event of Digital Month will be the inaugural Sri Lanka FinTech Summit, which aims to attract substantial foreign direct investment. One of the Summit’s strategic pillars is accelerating financial inclusion for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by developing lending models that use alternative data and AI-driven scoring. He shared that initiatives like QR code payments and mobile wallets will be promoted to drive a “cash-lite” economy, with a target of 95% financial inclusion by 2030.
Digital Economy Ministry Secretary Waruna Sri Danapala, stressed that INFOTEL 2025 supports the country’s economic and government mission. He said, “True digital transformation is about more than just technology and investment; it is about ensuring every individual, from schoolchildren to entrepreneurs, has access to the opportunities created by technology. A strong digital economy relies on a connected, skilled, and empowered population.”
FITIS Vice Chairman Thariq Sanoon stated that this year’s event will bring many new technologies, including developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and startup education forums. “It’s not going to be only an exhibition, but an end-to-end showcasing of the whole digital technology landscape,” he said. Sanoon detailed the three-day event, highlighting that one day will be dedicated to an education conference for children and teachers. The event is expected to attract 5,000 students, who will receive free entry upon showing up in their school uniform. He also provided key statistics, revealing that INFOTEL 2025 expects around 300 exhibitors and a turnout of 20,000 to 25,000 visitors, a mix of 20% business-to-business (B2B) and 80% business-to-consumer (B2C).
Speaking about the exhibition’s history, Sanoon explained that last year’s INFOTEL was cancelled due to elections, but this year’s show is different. He affirmed that it would showcase more advanced technologies and the work of the startup community. “You are going to see AI-infused hardware devices. AI is going to come and showcase this time,” he confirmed.
Adding to the conversation, FITIS Chairman Dr. Dayan Rajapakse said the timing of INFOTEL 2025 is particularly significant as the 100 Days of Digital Program has already set in motion key initiatives in governance and public services. He explained that by showcasing these projects to a broad audience, the exhibition reinforces the Government’s commitment to ensuring that digital transformation benefits every sector.
He added that INFOTEL’s commitment to inclusivity is further highlighted in its admission structure, which is designed to encourage wide participation. General entry is priced at Rs. 100, with complimentary passes for those who register in advance. He also noted that INFOTEL is a strategic platform that serves as a central hub for Sri Lanka’s ICT community and supports the country’s national vision for a technologically advanced and digitally-driven future. He concluded by saying the event represents a unique opportunity to showcase Sri Lanka’s readiness for digital transformation while demonstrating to citizens how technology can improve education, employment, governance, and quality of life.
The exhibition is set to feature live demonstrations of emerging technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, FinTech, e-commerce, and smart city applications. Youth and startup zones will give early-stage ventures visibility while connecting them with mentors and investors, while workshops, seminars, and gaming zones will engage younger audiences.
Pic by Sameera Wijesinghe
