The Sri Lankan pavilion at IFE 2026 brought together international buyers, distributors, and manufacturers to showcase products and explore commercial opportunities and collaborations with the UK food & drink sector. 

The UK Trade Partnerships (UKTP) Programme, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), facilitated a delegation of export-ready small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate in the event.

Sri Lanka was strongly represented through a diverse group of exhibitors showcasing the breadth and depth of the country’s food and drink offer. The Ceylon Artisanal Tea Association (CATA) featured AMBA Estate, an organic, high-altitude producer in the Uva Highlands known for its small-batch artisanal teas with full traceability and a strong commitment to environmental and social sustainability. Gralgo From Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd presented its range of premium teas and spices, including its award-winning Tea Coin format, alongside a portfolio developed with a focus on ethical sourcing, international certifications and sustainable packaging.

Coconut-based innovation was a key theme across several exhibitors. NDC Exports (Pvt) Ltd, trading as Cocomate, showcased a wide range of organic coconut products including virgin coconut oil, coconut milk and plant-based alternatives, produced from coconuts grown on its own plantations. Manchiee De Coco Products demonstrated its extensive coconut portfolio spanning coconut milk powder, MCT oil, virgin coconut oil and value-added coconut products, supporting significant employment across its operations. Wichy Plantation Company (Pvt) Limited highlighted its globally recognised coconut product range, alongside its investment in recyclable Tetra Recart packaging as part of its commitment to sustainable innovation and compliance with evolving international standards.

A broader ingredients and value-added offering was also present. HDDES Extracts (Pvt) Ltd exhibited its wide portfolio of spices, essential oils, oleoresins and botanical extracts, supported by extensive international certifications and a strong focus on traceability and quality assurance. MA’s Kitchen showcased its extensive range of spices, seasonings, sauces and ready-to-eat products, underpinned by long-standing relationships with local farmers and a commitment to sustainable development.

Emerging and sustainability-led brands added further depth to the Sri Lankan presence. Nootz presented its range of coconut-based smoothies produced using regenerative organic farming practices and minimal ingredients, addressing both environmental concerns and changing consumer preferences. Planet’s Finest highlighted its sustainably sourced, natural food products rooted in Sri Lanka’s agricultural heritage, with a focus on delivering wholesome nutrition while preserving the environment. Helanta introduced its specialty coffee, produced through a farm-to-cup approach in Kothmale and recognised with a gold award in 2025, alongside a distinctive women-led production model.

On 30 March 2026, High Commissioner Nimal Senadheera met with Sri Lankan exporters present at the event and assured them of the High Commission’s support to find markets in the UK while highlighting the need to maintain high quality standards, strengthen their brand identities, and take advantage of preferential market access opportunities, including the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). He also commended the UKTP Programme, the FCDO and ITC representatives present at the event for their support and initiatives that enhance Sri Lankan exporters’ access to the UK market.