By: Staff Writer

November 05, Colombo (LNW): Following a travel warning from Israel’s National Security Council urging citizens to leave Sri Lanka due to a potential terrorist threat, the number of Israeli tourists in the country has plummeted from 514 to a mere 125.

Sources from the Sri Lanka Tourist Police Unit have reported that the few Israeli visitors still present are primarily located in popular tourist areas such as Ella and various destinations along the Southern coast.

On October 23, the National Security Council advised Israeli nationals to vacate tourist hotspots in the South, East, and West coastal towns due to the identified risk of attacks. It recommended that citizens either move to Colombo, where security forces are more concentrated, or consider leaving the country entirely.

The advisory further urged Israeli tourists to hide any indicators of their nationality and avoid crowded places.

The remaining 125 Israeli tourists hold three-month visas, leading to uncertainty about their intentions to either remain or depart in the coming weeks, according to the sources.

At the time the advisory was issued, Israeli travelers were primarily found in hotspots such as Arugam Bay, Pottuvil, Ahangama, Mirissa, Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Weligama—regions renowned for their surfing opportunities and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Interestingly, despite the travel advisories from various countries including the US, UK, Australia, Russia, Canada, and New Zealand, tourist arrivals from other key markets have remained robust.

While these nations have cautioned their citizens regarding travel to Sri Lanka, there has not been a significant decrease in tourist numbers. Officials report that security measures have been bolstered across all major tourist locations nationwide.

In the first few days of November alone, over 20,000 international tourists have arrived, with no notable decline in visits following the advisories.

Six of the seven countries that issued warnings, with New Zealand being the exception, are among Sri Lanka’s top 20 source markets, together accounting for approximately 30% of total arrivals for 2024.

The initial advisory from the US Embassy in Colombo indicated credible threats of a potential attack in Arugam Bay, a popular surfing destination on the Eastern coast. This alert was quickly mirrored by similar warnings from other nations, including Israel.

To reassure international visitors, the Sri Lanka Tourist Police have confirmed that extensive security measures are being implemented. As the peak tourism season approaches, the industry aims to sustain its attractiveness to global travelers, striving to achieve a target of 2 million arrivals and $3 billion in revenue.

By: Staff Writer

November 05, Colombo (LNW): Under the new administration of the NPP government, export development is set to gain momentum as Sri Lanka renews its ties with Michelin, the global leader in tire manufacturing.

This partnership established under the new government is expected to boost economic growth through enhanced export strategies that align with Michelin’s international goals.

The collaboration reflects a commitment to supporting local industries and establishing long-term trade relationships that benefit the country’s economy.

This renewed collaboration between Michelin and the NPP-led government highlights a promising future for Sri Lanka’s export framework, positioning the country as a competitive player in the global rubber industry.

The NPP government’s support for Michelin exemplifies its proactive stance in fostering economic resilience and industrial growth, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s presence in international trade.

Michelin, the French tire giant, first entered Sri Lanka in 2018 through its acquisition of Camso-Loadstar, making it the largest French investor and one of the leading exporters in the country.

The company produces solid tires, tracks, and sprockets for the construction and material-handling sectors and employs nearly 6,000 people across the island.

On November 1, a high-profile delegation from Michelin met with Mangala Wijesinghe, the newly appointed Chairman of the Export Development Board (EDB), to discuss strategies for advancing Sri Lanka’s rubber manufacturing sector.

 The Michelin delegation included Eric Le Corre, Corporate Vice President of Public Affairs at Michelin’s France headquarters; Koenraad Pringiers, Public Affairs Consultant; and Nilanthi Weliwe, Head of Legal Affairs at Michelin’s local operations.

 During the discussions, Michelin’s representatives emphasized the need for proactive government policies to boost local rubber production, which would help increase the volume of value-added rubber products.

They also proposed expanding market access through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and advocated for the creation of a dedicated rubber zone to enhance the production of diverse rubber products on the island.

The EDB issued a statement underscoring the agency’s commitment to supporting Michelin’s growth in Sri Lanka, with EDB Chief Mangala Wijesinghe assuring that the new government would fully support Michelin’s export objectives through investor-friendly policies.

Michelin is globally recognized as the second-largest tire manufacturer, famous for inventing the detachable tire. With 123 production sites across 26 countries and a commercial presence in 170 nations, Michelin employs around 125,000 people worldwide.

In Asia, Michelin maintains a strong foothold in key markets, including Thailand, China, India, and Sri Lanka.

Since its entry into Sri Lanka in 2018, Michelin has manufactured and exported agricultural and industrial solid tires and tracks, and currently has nearly 6,000 employees throughout the island.

The EDB has closely collaborated with Michelin’s Sri Lankan operations, supporting the participation of technical personnel in workshops on tire compounding, technology, innovation, and research and development from 2018 to 2023.

The EDB also facilitated factory operations during the COVID-19 period, reinforcing its commitment to helping Michelin navigate operational challenges in Sri Lanka.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 05, Colombo (LNW): In the latest update from the Henley Passport Index, Sri Lanka has secured the 95th position globally, reflecting a modest improvement in global mobility but underscoring its limited access to visa-free destinations.

Released by Henley & Partners in October 2024, the index reveals that Sri Lankan passport holders can access only 44 countries without prior visa requirements, positioning it alongside Iran and South Sudan in the global rankings.

This ranking shows a slight advance for Sri Lanka, which was positioned 100th in 2023 and 102nd in 2022, indicating gradual, albeit slow, improvement.

The Henley Passport Index assesses the strength of passports by the number of destinations holders can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival.

With data sourced from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and updated quarterly, the index provides an insight into global mobility and the ease of international travel.

Singapore, which regained the top spot this year, offers its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 195 out of 227 destinations.

This success can be attributed to Singapore’s strategic diplomatic efforts, which foster open access to countries worldwide.

This level of unrestricted mobility showcases the substantial benefits that arise from strong diplomatic ties and proactive visa agreements, setting a benchmark for other nations.

Japan, previously a long-time leader in passport rankings, has been displaced by Singapore and now ranks second, tied with France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. These nations grant their citizens visa-free access to 192 destinations.

Meanwhile, Denmark recently secured visa-free access to China, propelling it to the third rank globally.

The UK, still navigating the post-Brexit landscape, has climbed to fourth position with visa-free access to 190 countries, reflecting the country’s steady effort to re-establish its travel privileges internationally.

For Sri Lanka, the current ranking emphasises the need for a strengthened foreign policy and targeted efforts to enhance its citizens’ travel freedom. Expanding visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements could yield economic benefits, especially given the country’s reliance on remittances and international business ties.

Improved international access would also facilitate greater cultural exchange, potentially elevating Sri Lanka’s global presence and reinforcing its appeal as a travel and trade partner.

Whilst Sri Lanka’s gradual progress is positive, the passport’s limited reach highlights the importance of future diplomatic strategies aimed at enhancing Sri Lankan citizens’ mobility.

*With inputs from Henley Global

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 05, Colombo (LNW): Chairman of the Colombo Tea Traders’ Association (CTTA) Sanjaya Herath highlighted the pressing need for Sri Lanka’s tea industry to modernise its practices by integrating sustainable methods and embracing technological advancements.

He raised these concerns addressing the Association’s 130th Annural General Meeting.

With labour costs comprising over 60 per cent of production expenses, the sector faces mounting challenges, including inflation and a dwindling workforce, he pointed out.

Herath advocated for automation and renewable energy investments to maintain the industry’s resilience and reduce dependency on costly labour.

“Our future depends on forward-thinking approaches that prioritise innovation, technology, and sustainable growth,” said Herath.

He emphasised that adopting advanced technology, fostering public-private partnerships, and empowering smallholder farmers are essential steps to strengthen the sector.

Herath also underscored the importance of resilience to navigate the fluctuating demands of the global tea market.

Beyond production challenges, the CTTA has made strides in supporting tea-growing communities. This year, the association expanded its community outreach by deploying two 1990 Suwasariya ambulances in Maskeliya and Nivithigala to ensure access to essential medical services for workers in these regions.

Furthermore, the CTTA’s “Ray of Hope” charity initiative, launched in April, reinforced its commitment to assisting vulnerable communities within the tea sector.

The CTTA has also demonstrated adaptability in the face of recent crises. The digital transformation of the Colombo Tea Auction in 2020, spurred by the Covid-19 pandemic, marked a significant shift from traditional practices, enabling trade continuity despite global disruptions.

Herath praised the online auctioning system as a landmark achievement, ensuring Sri Lankan tea maintained its global market presence and kept the industry’s wheels turning even during uncertain times.

The event’s keynote speaker, Dr. Rohan Pethiyagoda, former Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tea Board and noted biodiversity scientist, echoed Herath’s call for modernisation.

He argued that Sri Lanka’s tea sector must not rest on tradition alone but instead must seize control of its destiny by proactively addressing contemporary challenges, such as climate change and regulatory demands.

“Wishful thinking is insufficient. Recognising and confronting these challenges head-on, with a commitment to sustainability, will determine our industry’s future,” Dr. Pethiyagoda said.

He also urged CTTA members to secure Geographical Indication (GI) status for Ceylon Tea in key markets, particularly the European Union, to safeguard the authenticity of Sri Lanka’s unique tea varieties.

Pethiyagoda stressed the importance of protecting regional identities within the Ceylon Tea brand, recognising the distinctive qualities that differentiate Sri Lankan teas globally.

Founded in 1894, the CTTA is widely known to have played a pivotal role in advancing Sri Lanka’s tea industry, overseeing the Colombo Tea Auction, the largest single-origin tea auction worldwide.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 05, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) indicates slight depreciation against the US Dollar today (05) in comparison to yesterday, maintaining nonetheless below the Rs. 300 threshold, as revealed by the official exchange rates released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).

Accordingly, the buying price of the US Dollar has increased to Rs. 288.67 from Rs. 288.55, and the selling price to Rs. 297.72 from Rs. 297.60