The Sectoral Oversight Committee on National Economic and Physical Plans in Sri Lanka has discussed the government's plan to attract five million tourists to the country in 2024.
The meeting took place on 08 December and was chaired by Mahindananda Aluthgamage.
Officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Lands announced their plan to implement the Home Stay concept, along with plans to attract wealthy tourists. However, the Committee stressed the importance of respecting tourists and argued that training programs were needed to prepare the local community for the influx of visitors.
The Committee also highlighted the need to promote local tourist attractions and identify areas for infrastructure improvement.
In addition to this, the Committee approved several annual reports, including those from the Ministry of Tourism and Lands, the Tourism Promotion Bureau, and the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel.
The Sri Lankan government hopes that by attracting five million tourists in 2024, they will boost the country's economy and create new jobs. The tourism industry is a vital sector for Sri Lanka, contributing 5.5% to the country's GDP and employing over 400,000 people.
