The 30th edition of the Asian Exim Banks Forum (AEBF) 2025 marked a defining milestone in the Forum’s three-decade journey of advancing trade, financial cooperation, and regional development across the Asia-Pacific. Established in 1996 in Bengaluru, AEBF today represents a collaboration of member countries including China, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, Japan, Vietnam, and others, operating under a rotating presidency model similar to the G20.
Guided by the 2025 theme ‘Samriddhi Sutra: The Guide to Prosperity’, the India-hosted edition was envisioned as more than a conference—designed as a cultural and experiential showcase reflecting economic cooperation, sustainable development, and shared growth. The Forum was hosted by the Export-Import Bank of India and executed by Vibgyor Experiential, which delivered the end-to-end on-ground experience across Kerala.
Kochi was selected as the host city for its maritime legacy, scenic backwaters, vibrant cuisine, and deep-rooted traditions, offering a compelling canvas to showcase India’s cultural richness alongside global dialogue. The Forum commenced with the Annual General Meeting at Taj Malabar, where dignitaries and delegates gathered for high-level discussions in an elegant waterfront setting.
Cultural immersion formed the heart of the experience on Day 2 at Kumarakom Lake Resort, with delegates welcomed in traditional attire, followed by an authentic Onam Sadhya and a curated evening celebrating Kerala’s artistic heritage. Performances included Panchavadyam, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Puli Kali, Kalarippayattu, Thiruvathirakali, and shadow puppetry, creating a deeply immersive cultural narrative.
Formal deliberations continued on Day 3 at the KTDC Waterscapes Convention Centre, featuring institutional presentations, committee updates, and the ceremonial handover of the AEBF emblem to the next host nation—reinforcing continuity and shared responsibility within the Forum.
Designed as a fully immersive, photo-centric experience, the Forum’s visual identity featured signature installations such as a giant traditional boat, Kathakali cut-outs, and thematic EXIM backdrops, encouraging engagement and storytelling throughout the event. The programme concluded on Day 4 with a symbolic Snake Boat Race in the backwaters of Kumarakom, followed by a cultural exploration of Kochi’s forts and landmarks.
As the Asian Exim Banks Forum celebrated 30 years, the 2025 edition in India stood out as a benchmark in global forums—seamlessly blending strategic dialogue, cultural immersion, and experiential execution, delivered by Vibgyor Experiential.
