Sri Lanka aims to attract four million tourists and generate US$ 8 billion in revenue by 2030, Minister Vijitha Herath announced during his keynote address at the India–Sri Lanka Tourism Relations programme held in Colombo on November 19.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister emphasized that tourism remains a core pillar of Sri Lanka’s economy, noting that the country welcomed its two millionth tourist this week — a milestone that signals a strong recovery.
He outlined Sri Lanka’s tourism priorities, which include sustainability, market diversification, enhanced air connectivity, and digital transformation. He added that the country is aligning its national tourism strategy with global trends such as AI integration, in line with the “Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism.”
Minister Herath noted a significant rise in Indian tourist arrivals following the implementation of visa-free access and targeted promotional campaigns, positioning Sri Lanka as a leading short-haul destination for Indian travellers.
He highlighted several emerging segments that have gained traction, including MICE tourism, heritage trails, beach tourism, hospitality investments, and film tourism. He also pointed to the strong potential for religious tourism through Buddhist pilgrimage routes and Ramayana trail programs.
The Minister said Sri Lanka and India share a 2,500-year relationship, making tourism cooperation both natural and mutually beneficial. He expressed hope that the new initiative would further strengthen bilateral ties and open new avenues for collaboration in the years ahead.
