The Industrial Development Board’s (IDB) National Food and Beverage Conference that will be held tomorrow (August 25), 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, organized 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 organizations associated with the industry. 

The speakers will include the CEO of Finagle Lanka - Kushan Amarasinghe who will focus on the future of the F&B industry, the Chairman of Ceylon Plant Food - Annes Junaid will explore the topic of ‘Expanding Horizons: Food and Beverage Looks for Growth” and Director Nelna Agri Development - Punya Nanayakkara will speak 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 institution 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 programme will strengthen farmer-producer organizations, 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.