Rs. 2 b to boost tourism in 15 markets

Sri Lanka has strengthened its economic position internationally and recorded improved tourism earnings, with the Government allocating Rs. 2 billion to promote the country across 15 target markets, Deputy Minister of Tourism Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe said yesterday (19).

Speaking on recent progress, Prof. Ranasinghe said the funding forms part of a strategy to increase tourism revenue and arrivals through coordinated marketing initiatives.

“As a key measure to boost tourism earnings to the country, the Government has allocated Rs. 2 billion to target 15 countries for growth, along with a plan of digital and public relations (PR) campaigns to be implemented by the aviation sector very soon to further enhance tourist arrivals,” he said.

He noted that tourism performance on 15 February showed a notable increase compared to previous years. Prof. Ranasinghe also highlighted the impact of the recent T20 cricket match, stating that it contributed to occupancy rates reaching 100% during the event period.

“Sri Lanka has managed to achieve economic stability globally, which has contributed to achieve high tourism earnings into the country to date,” he said.

Meanwhile, SriLankan Airlines announced a public awareness initiative through SriLankan Airport and Ground Services at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and Mattala Airport. The initiative provides information on tourist arrivals and departures, airline services, safety measures, and regulatory requirements.

At BIA, SriLankan Airlines operates approximately 5,200 flights per month, handling around 500,000 passengers.

SriLankan Airlines Corporate Communications Manager Deepal Perera said the initiative is aligned with peak tourist inflows.

“The aim of this is that, during the peak times of high tourists entering into the country, it is a key segment towards the Government revenue growth,” he said. “It serves as a means of attracting high inflows of tourism earnings, and this is being undertaken to ensure passengers have a hospitable experience in the country, towards the betterment of the economy.”

Source - The Morning