Sri Lanka recently took center stage at the Thailand Smart City Expo 2024, demonstrating its strides in technology and innovation. Organized by the Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Thailand, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), the event took place from 6–8 November 2024 in Bangkok. This participation marked an important milestone for Sri Lanka, positioning itself as a hub for smart city solutions and advanced technology on an international platform.
About the Thailand Smart City Expo 2024
The Thailand Smart City Expo 2024 is the largest exhibition in Southeast Asia focused on smart city innovations and emerging technologies. Hosted by Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), alongside N.C.C. Management and Development Co. Ltd., the event serves as a global meeting point for innovators, policymakers, and business leaders. The expo emphasizes advancements in critical areas such as:
- Smart Telecommunications
- Energy
- Urban Living
- Retail and Industry
- Mobility
- Environmental Sustainability
- Healthcare
By showcasing cutting-edge developments across these sectors, the expo provides a platform for countries to demonstrate their contributions to building smarter, more sustainable cities.
Sri Lanka’s Participation
The Sri Lankan Embassy played a pivotal role in facilitating the country’s representation at this prestigious event. In collaboration with the EDB, the Embassy secured complimentary booths for Sri Lankan companies, offering them a valuable opportunity to present their innovations to a global audience.
Two leading Sri Lankan companies—Venora Lanka Power Panels Ltd. and Azend Technologies Ltd.—took part in the three-day event. Their participation highlighted Sri Lanka’s growing expertise in smart technologies, particularly in the following areas:
- Smart Energy Management: Showcasing sustainable and efficient energy solutions tailored to modern urban challenges.
- Automation: Demonstrating advancements in automated systems that enhance operational efficiency in industries.
- Telecommunications: Presenting innovative solutions that support smart communication networks.
The involvement of these companies underlined Sri Lanka’s ability to compete in the fast-evolving global tech industry.
Innovative Solutions from Sri Lanka
Venora Lanka Power Panels Ltd.
This company specializes in smart energy management systems and has been at the forefront of introducing sustainable energy solutions. At the expo, Venora showcased its innovative energy-saving technologies that cater to smart cities’ growing demand for efficient energy solutions. Their cutting-edge power panels are designed to optimize energy consumption while reducing environmental impact, making them a key player in the smart energy sector.
Azend Technologies Ltd.
Azend Technologies is a leader in telecommunications and automation solutions. Their innovations aim to improve connectivity and streamline processes in urban environments. During the expo, Azend demonstrated how its technologies can support smart city infrastructure by enhancing communication networks and introducing automated solutions for urban living.
The Importance of Sri Lanka’s Participation
Sri Lanka’s presence at the Thailand Smart City Expo 2024 carried significant strategic value. Here’s why this participation matters:
- Showcasing Sri Lanka’s Expertise: By participating in a high-profile event, Sri Lanka demonstrated its growing capabilities in the field of smart city technologies.
- Attracting Global Partnerships: The event provided Sri Lankan companies with an opportunity to network with global stakeholders, paving the way for potential collaborations and investments.
- Boosting Exports: Participation in international expos like this one is crucial for expanding Sri Lanka’s export portfolio, particularly in high-tech sectors.
- Enhancing National Brand: By showcasing innovation and competitiveness, Sri Lanka positioned itself as a forward-thinking nation ready to contribute to the global technology ecosystem.
Opportunities for Growth
Sri Lanka’s participation in events like the Thailand Smart City Expo also opens doors for the country to explore further opportunities in the technology sector. The global demand for smart city solutions is rising, with countries across the world seeking innovative technologies to build more sustainable and efficient urban environments. By strengthening its presence in this sector, Sri Lanka can:
- Expand its Technology Export Base: Build on its current strengths to export more smart technologies and services.
- Attract Foreign Investment: Position itself as an attractive destination for investors looking to fund smart city projects.
- Develop Local Talent: Inspire and empower local engineers, innovators, and startups to contribute to the growing demand for smart city solutions.
Strengthening Regional Ties
The Thailand Smart City Expo 2024 also provided a platform for Sri Lanka to strengthen its regional ties with Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. By participating in such events, Sri Lanka not only showcases its technological prowess but also reinforces its commitment to fostering regional cooperation in technology and innovation.
Looking Ahead
Sri Lanka’s successful participation at the expo underscores its potential as a rising player in the global smart city technology market. By continuing to invest in innovation, fostering public-private partnerships, and supporting local tech companies, Sri Lanka can further enhance its position on the global stage.
Conclusion
The Thailand Smart City Expo 2024 was a significant opportunity for Sri Lanka to showcase its growing expertise in smart technologies. With companies like Venora Lanka Power Panels Ltd. and Azend Technologies Ltd. leading the way, the country demonstrated its ability to innovate and compete in the global market.
Sri Lanka’s participation not only highlighted its technological advancements but also reinforced its vision of becoming a key player in building smarter, more sustainable cities for the future.
