By:Staff Writer
September 15, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues to gain momentum under the new National People’s Power (NPP) government, with fresh data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) showing 52,246 tourist arrivals in the first two weeks of September 2025.
India remains the country’s largest source market, contributing 14,300 visitors so far this month, or 27.4% of arrivals. The United Kingdom followed with 4,092 tourists, while Germany (3,488), China (2,796), and Australia (2,603) also ranked among the top five.
With these figures, cumulative arrivals for 2025 have reached 1,618,769 — a significant rebound compared to the pandemic-era slump that crippled the sector. India leads overall arrivals this year with 339,895 visitors, followed by the UK (155,233) and Russia (119,132).
Tourism, which accounts for nearly 5% of Sri Lanka’s GDP, has been identified as a critical driver of foreign exchange earnings by the NPP administration. Since assuming office, the government has prioritized tourism revival through policy measures aimed at diversifying source markets, enhancing infrastructure, and improving safety and service standards.
The NPP has also accelerated visa facilitation reforms, including the planned introduction of a digital visa system to ease entry for tourists from Europe and East Asia. Discussions are underway to expand airline connectivity, particularly targeting China and the Middle East, to tap into high-spending segments.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the renewed focus, noting that improved political stability and economic reforms have boosted confidence among foreign travelers and tour operators. Hoteliers in coastal regions, as well as cultural and eco-tourism operators, report stronger booking trends heading into the upcoming winter season, traditionally the peak period for arrivals.
Despite the recovery, the sector faces hurdles. Rising competition from regional destinations such as Thailand and Maldives, concerns over service quality, and inadequate infrastructure in key tourist hotspots remain pressing challenges. Industry experts stress that Sri Lanka must modernize its tourism offerings to retain its competitive edge.
The NPP government has pledged to address these issues by developing sustainable tourism projects and promoting lesser-known destinations beyond Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. Plans to highlight agro-tourism, wellness retreats, and community-based eco-lodges are already in motion.
