General

Sri Lanka to Host the Prestigious World Marketing Forum for the First Time

The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), the nation’s apex body for marketing, is proud to announce that Sri Lanka will host the prestigious World Marketing Forum (WMF) for the very first time. Endorsed by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, this landmark occasion marks a defining moment for the country, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a trusted and capable hub for world-class conferences, global thought leadership, and cross-border collaboration.

The Forum, scheduled to take place in Colombo from November 11 to 16, 2025, will bring together senior marketing professionals, industry leaders, global corporations, policymakers, and investors from over 50 countries and more than 50 international associations across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania.

Speaking on the significance of the event, Prof. (Dr.) Jayantha Dewasiri, President of SLIM, stated:

“Hosting the World Marketing Forum for the first time in Sri Lanka is a testament to the nation’s capabilities, infrastructure, and expertise in the field. This event will not only elevate Sri Lanka’s profile internationally but also inspire the local marketing fraternity to embrace global best practices, while proudly showcasing our own innovations and success stories to the world.”

Project Chair, Mr Asanka Perera, described the achievement as both a national triumph and a cultural milestone:

“We are proud to bring this global platform to Sri Lanka. Beyond being a professional gathering, the Forum will highlight the flavour of our country, its rich culture, and its immense possibilities to the world. It is an opportunity to demonstrate Sri Lanka’s unique strengths on the global stage.”

The Forum’s arrival in Sri Lanka is a rare and momentous occasion, as the extensive global participation and rotational hosting structure mean that the country will not have the opportunity to host WMF again for at least the next 70 years. For Sri Lanka, this represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase its dynamic marketing industry, robust event hosting capabilities, and commitment to advancing the profession globally.

A Power-Packed Programme

The World Marketing Forum 2025 promises a diverse and impactful programme of keynote addresses, panel discussions, award ceremonies, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration among leading professionals from different cultural and economic contexts.

November 11 – Arrival of delegates and a welcome dinner.
November 12 (Conference Day 1) – Opening addresses by SLIM and government leaders, keynote by Prof. Philip Kotler, followed by sessions on operational excellence, creative innovation, and global management practices.
November 13 (Conference Day 2) – Focus on Sri Lanka’s brand journeys, transformation of marketing practices, and global perspectives from Europe, Africa, the UK, North America, and Latin America, concluding with the Asia Marketing Excellence Awards, Asia Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Awards, and SLIM Brand Excellence Awards.
November 14 (Conference Day 3) – Asia Industry Expo 2025 at BMICH and the Ringing of the Bell Ceremony at the Colombo Stock Exchange, followed by the closing dinner.
November 15 – Optional cultural tours to Kandy or Galle, showcasing Sri Lanka’s heritage, culture, and hospitality.
November 16 – Departure of delegates.

Showcasing Sri Lanka to the World

With over 150 international investors, 50+ associations, and delegates from around the globe, WMF 2025 will not only strengthen professional collaboration but also provide opportunities for exports, trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Delegates will experience Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and world-renowned hospitality, further solidifying the nation's position as a trusted partner in global business and marketing leadership.

The WMF 2025 is proudly supported by a distinguished group of event sponsors, including Unilever, the Colombo Stock Exchange, the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Bank of Ceylon, and Sunshine Holdings.

By bringing WMF 2025 to Colombo, SLIM reaffirms its mission to lead the nation’s efforts towards economic prosperity through marketing, ensuring that Sri Lanka emerges as a valued and influential voice in global marketing dialogues.