The 8th edition of the Colombo International Maritime and Logistics Conference (CIMC) 2026 is scheduled to take place from September 9 to 11, 2026, at the Radisson Blu Hotel Galadari Colombo, Sri Lanka. This premier regional event brings together global port operators, shipping lines, and logistics providers to discuss the evolving dynamics of the Indian Ocean's maritime and logistics landscape.
Conference Theme and Focus
The 2026 edition centers on the theme "Building a world around us," emphasizing Sri Lanka's role as a critical hub in the global supply chains. Key focus areas include:
- Capacity Expansion: Discussions will highlight the Sri Lanka’s massive port capacity increase, aiming for nearly 100% new container capacity by the end of 2027, in Colombo & Hambantota, to solidify its status as a top transshipment hub that will be open for international investments in container terminals.
- Logistics, storage and distribution: Sri Lanka is the best location in the Indian Ocean given the developments in geopolitics to secure efficient logistics services, including free port operations, transit value addition, storage & distribution for cargo and bunker services.
- South Asian Growth: With India projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030 and with massive container output, the conference will serve as a platform for shipping companies and investors to explore regional investment dynamics and connectivity with backward integration.
- Technology transition: The conference will evaluate, 360-degree opportunities, adapt the latest technologies to all logistics related industries, making Sri Lanka a partner in supporting efficient, secure supply chain destinations to global clients.
Event Highlights
The three-day program is expected to host over 500 delegates and features:
- Inauguration & Networking: An opening ceremony followed by a high-level networking reception.
- Full day conference sessions: Sessions dedicated to efficient logistics services, including free port operations, transit value addition, regional dynamics with India aiming to be the largest economy by 2030, latest technologies to all logistics related industries
- Report Launch: The event will feature the official launch of the South Asia Container Report 2026, providing critical data for industry stakeholders and related port and shipping discussions
Strategic Importance
Organized by CIMC Events in collaboration with the Shippers' Academy Colombo and Shippers’ Academy International, the conference is endorsed by the Ministry of Ports & Civil Aviation and other government institutions and the Office of the Special Advisor to the President on Investments. It is also supported and endorsed by multiple chambers and international organisations.
