Conference

Welcome to Aqua Planet 2025 Sri Lanka: International Aquatic Expo, a distinguished event proudly presented by the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, in close collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR) and the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA). From 21st to 23rd November 2025, the iconic Lotus Tower premises in Colombo will become a vibrant hub, inviting visitors globally to explore the dynamic world of Sri Lanka’s aquatic resources.

This three-day exhibition is conceived as a pivotal platform, bringing together fisheries professionals, entrepreneurs, exporters, researchers, innovators, students, the general public, and international guests. Held in commemoration of World Fisheries Day, its primary aim is to comprehensively showcase Sri Lanka’s thriving fisheries and aquaculture sector. We underscore our nation’s unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, fostering aquatic entrepreneurship, critical marine conservation efforts, and the strategic advancement of a robust blue economy. Aqua Planet 2025 offers a truly engaging and enriching experience for all – from seasoned industry experts and global investors to enthusiastic students, local communities, and curious international visitors alike, with a particular spotlight on ornamental fish and the vibrant seafood industry.

Sri Lanka’s aquatic sector holds a vital and strategic role within the national economy and for the livelihoods it supports. Contributing approximately 1.2% to 1.4% of the national GDP, its influence extends widely, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and empowering countless coastal and inland communities. Annually, this sector impressively generates over US$300 million in export earnings, reflecting its significant and growing global standing. Aqua Planet 2025 arrives at a crucial juncture, building upon these notable successes while proactively addressing emerging challenges in sustainability, value-addition, and meeting stringent international market demands.

The distinctiveness of Aqua Planet 2025 lies in its expansive and integrated approach. While celebrating the dynamic seafood industry through extensive showcases of fresh, processed, and cooked seafood, a significant emphasis is also placed on the captivating world of ornamental fish. Attendees will encounter a unique blend of these essential aquatic segments, complemented by a rich array of educational and interactive features. These include an enlightening journey through “Fisheries Through Time,” vibrant cultural performances by fishing communities, innovative competition zones for students, and immersive displays of live aquatic specimens. It offers a holistic perspective on Sri Lanka’s aquatic wealth – spanning from the ocean’s depths to inland waterways, embracing both profound economic potential and vital ecological responsibility.

The Expo is designed to be a crucial platform for knowledge exchange and business development. Experts from leading universities and research institutions, including NARA, Ocean University, and UNIVOTEC, will share valuable insights into sustainable innovation and practices. Concurrently, the Expo will cultivate trade and investment opportunities, offer practical guidance on export and import processes, and provide essential entrepreneurial support, connecting new businesses with financial institutions and information crucial for infrastructure development.

Aqua Planet 2025 Sri Lanka is an open invitation to celebrate our shared aquatic heritage, learn from leading experts, and collectively chart a course towards a resilient and prosperous future for Sri Lanka’s invaluable aquatic sector. Join us in making a profound impact for a sustainable planet.