The biennial Regional Assembly, represented by all members, is the highest authority of the ICA-Asia and Pacific. The Regional Assembly is a central policy-making and representative body that brings together all members and provides them a platform to discuss multiple issues concerning the development and growth of cooperatives as well as the opportunity to network and form bilateral and multilateral alliances for mutual benefit. It plays a vital role in strengthening the democratic governance process of cooperatives by building consensus on issues and passing the agenda after discussion to the satisfaction of all members.

The 17th Regional Assembly will be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka from 24 to 28 November 2025. The National Council of Cooperatives in Sri Lanka (NCCSL) is hosting the event in collaboration with the country’s broader cooperative movement.

Sri Lanka has a long and rich history of cooperative development, with the first cooperative society established in 1904. Today, the country is home to over 15,000 cooperatives, serving more than 8 million members and employing over 50,000 people. These cooperatives play a vital role in a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, youth and women empowerment, marketing, health, education, and finance, contributing significantly to inclusive and sustainable development across the nation.

This year, the Regional Assembly will also elect the new Board of Directors of the ICA-AP. Delegates will have the opportunity to participate in the 12th Asia-Pacific Cooperative Forum, as well as various thematic seminars and workshops organized by our committees. These events will also mark the culmination of activities led by the Regional Office in observance of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025.