By: Staff Writer
Colombo (LNW): In the quest of attracting 2 million travelers in 2023, Sri Lanka Tourism achieved a significant milestone this week, as it crossed the 800,000 arrivals mark year-to-date, signaling continuous momentum.
Tourism Minister Harin Fernando lauded the achievement, highlighting its positive impact on the sector’s vitality.
During the first six days of August, a total of 30,303 tourists entered the country, solidifying the country’s appeal as a preferred travel destination.
Among the leading contributors to this surge in tourist arrivals in the first six days, India claimed the top spot with an impressive 4,608 visitors, followed closely by the United Kingdom, China, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Australia, and Russia.
Minister Fernando expressed his satisfaction with the current trajectory and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the tourism industry’s growth.
“This eclectic mix of nationalities underscores the global popularity of Sri Lanka’s offerings and its ability to cater to a wide range of travel preferences,” he added.
With the winter season on the horizon, industry analysts are optimistic about the prospects of continued growth in the tourism sector.
The steady rise in tourist arrivals augurs well for a busy and prosperous winter, boosting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and bolstering the overall economic landscape.
“As the destination embraces its role as a sought-after travel destination, stakeholders remain focused on ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for visitors, while simultaneously reaping the benefits of a flourishing tourism sector,” Fernando said.
Industry analysts opined the combined efforts of the Government, tourism authorities, and local communities are set to pave the way for a vibrant future in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape.
Minister Fernando also expressed confidence in achieving the set arrivals target of 2 million by the end of December.
India is the top source market for Sri Lanka pre-pandemic and about 1 million visitors arrived in the country in 2018. In May, Sri Lanka welcomed 23,016 Indian travellers reflecting 28% of total arrivals in the month. In the first five months, 17% or a total of 89,363 Indian tourists arrived in Sri Lanka.
Noting that the boost in arrivals was largely influenced by the Russian tourist, maintaining a lead ahead of India this year, the Minister hoped that the neighbouring giant will catch up and regain its top spot in the arrivals table.
As per the Minister, Russia accounts for around 25% of the total arrivals, whilst India is 13%, Germany and UK 8% and France 5%.
Originally for 2023, Sri Lanka Tourism set an ambitious target of 1.5 million arrivals and an income of $ 5 billion by attracting high-end travellers who spend over $ 400 per day from the current $ 200.
