The Chinese are looking at constructing a state-of-the-art exhibition and convention centre that is expected to be bigger than the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in size. The BMICH was also a gift by China to Sri Lanka. The newly proposed exhibition and convention centre is to be set up in the Colombo Port City.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) recently stated that China would construct a state-of-the-art exhibition and convention centre at the Colombo Port City aimed at boosting Sri Lanka’s capacity to host international trade summits and large-scale events.  

“This convention centre will position the Colombo Port City as a hub for global conferences and exhibitions, strengthening our role in international trade and diplomacy,” AKD had said.  

The President had also noted that China had pledged a Yuan 500 million grant (approximately Rs. 20 billion) to Sri Lanka during his recent visit and that the non-repayable funds will be utilised to eradicate rural poverty and improve public services.