Sri Lanka to host first-ever National AI Expo to drive $ 15 b digital economy

IN a bold move to position Sri Lanka as a regional leader in artificial intelligence and drive its transformation into a $ 15 billion digital economy by 2030, the country will host its first National AI Expo and Conference on 29 and 30 September.

- BY DIVYA THOTAWATTE

This landmark event, the country's most ambitious AI initiative to date, aims to accelerate AI adoption across all economic sectors, aligning with Sri Lanka's vision to expand its digital economy from an estimated $ 3.5 billion in 2025 to $ 15 billion by 2030. Artificial intelligence is projected to contribute 10-12% of this ambitious growth trajectory, positioning AI as a cornerstone in Sri Lanka's economic transformation.

The Expo is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Digital Economy and SLT-Mobitel, with SLASSCOM serving as the Ecosystem Partner.

During the conference, President Anura Kumara Disanayake will unveil Sri Lanka's comprehensive AI roadmap, alongside the unveiling of a National AI Fund and Centre for AI Excellence.

Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, said, "The National AI Expo and Conference sets the foundation stone for Sri Lanka's AI-powered future. The program reaffirms the Government's commitment to transforming Sri Lanka into a digitally empowered nation where artificial intelligence functions as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and improved quality of life for all citizens."