The Indian Ocean Divers Association (IODA) has announced that the IODA Ocean Summit 2025 will be held on 7th June 2025 at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This major international event aims to bring together key stakeholders from the diving and marine tourism sectors across the Indian Ocean region, including India, Sri Lanka, and other South Asian nations.
The official announcement was made by Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB). He emphasized that the summit will serve as a strategic platform to promote Sri Lanka’s growing adventure and marine tourism industries, offering new business opportunities and global exposure for local operators.
Organized in collaboration with the Chamber of Marine Industries in Sri Lanka (CMISL), the event highlights the joint commitment of both the tourism and marine sectors to develop and expand dive tourism in the region. Mr. Indira Kaushal Rajapaksa, President of CMISL, underlined the importance of this partnership in driving sustainable growth and enhancing the country’s visibility as a top marine tourism destination.
Mr. Suraj Khan, Secretary General of IODA, confirmed that several leading dive clubs from India have already pledged their participation. He acknowledged the crucial role played by CMISL and other organizing partners in supporting the summit and strengthening regional collaboration in the diving industry.
Scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM on the 7th of June, the IODA Ocean Summit 2025 will feature a full-day program packed with keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, and B2B networking opportunities. These sessions aim to foster dialogue, share best practices, and build strategic alliances among marine tourism professionals.
Mr. Shan Perera, Chairman of Events at CMISL, extended an open invitation to all Sri Lankan stakeholders in the diving and adventure tourism ecosystem including beach resorts, hotels, and tour operators—to take part in this significant event.
With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable tourism, the IODA Ocean Summit 2025 is expected to be a milestone event for marine tourism stakeholders throughout the Indian Ocean, paving the way for enhanced regional connectivity and industry growth.
