The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Sri Lanka (CILT SL) successfully concluded the CILT International Convention 2025 at Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams, Colombo, on September 15–16, marking a transformative milestone for the global logistics community and for Sri Lanka’s positioning as a premier logistics hub in South Asia.
Chief Teete Owusu-Nortey, FCILT, President, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) International
Held under the theme “Future Ready Logistics: Embracing Change and Driving Sustainability,” the convention brought together over 150 international delegates from more than 30 countries alongside 300+ Sri Lankan supply chain and logistics professionals. The event created a dynamic platform for strategic dialogue, networking, and collaboration across governments, industry leaders, academics, and professionals.
The two-day program featured keynote addresses from global experts, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking panel discussions on critical topics including digitalization, sustainability, supply chain resilience, optimization, and circular economy principles. Delegates commended the convention for offering valuable insights into rapidly evolving trends and global best practices.
The convention was inaugurated by Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation, who attended as Chief Guest. Deputy Minister Hon. Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku and Senior Professor Kapila C.K. Perera, Secretary to the Ministry, also participated as Guests of Honor.
In his address, Minister Rathnayake emphasized the strategic importance of logistics to Sri Lanka’s national development agenda:
“As a nation strategically located at the crossroads of global trade routes, we aspire to be recognized as a regional logistics hub. With ports, airports, and transport networks linking East and West, Sri Lanka is uniquely positioned to serve global commerce. Yet aspiration alone is not enough—it requires consistent effort, investment, innovation, and collaboration.”
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure by modernizing ports and airports, upgrading road and rail connectivity, expanding warehousing and value-added services, and driving digitalization to improve efficiency and transparency. He further stated that efficient logistics systems form the backbone of trade facilitation, economic growth, and competitiveness, noting that conventions of this scale are vital in helping Sri Lanka learn from international experience and accelerate its journey toward becoming a logistics hub.
CILT SL President Chandima Hulangamuwa said the convention exceeded expectations: “This event has positioned Sri Lanka as a forward-thinking logistics hub in the Indian Ocean region. The diversity of perspectives and collaborative spirit demonstrated over the two days will inspire transformation and lasting partnerships.”
The successful hosting of this flagship global event underscores CILT Sri Lanka’s leadership in shaping the nation’s logistics and transport agenda, while also strengthening Sri Lanka’s role in global supply chain networks.