President, Tourism Industry Discuss Sweeping Reforms 📈

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and key industry stakeholders met to discuss regulatory reforms and expansion strategies aimed at driving high-impact growth for tourism. • 2030 Targets: Aims to generate US$ 10 Bn in revenue and attract 5 Bn (5 million) tourist arrivals by 2030. • Regulatory & Compliance Reforms: • Mandatory registration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) for all tourist hotels and accommodation providers to formalize the sector. • New legal frameworks and regulations to govern foreign-run businesses operating illegally outside prescribed procedures. • Introduction of laws to protect forest resources while utilizing national parks to expand eco-tourism. • Aviation & Connectivity: • Plans to expand international airline connections to 50 carriers, building on the 10 new airlines that entered Sri Lanka this year. • Upgrading domestic air travel connections to regional hubs, including Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Sigiriya, and Jaffna. • Governance & Taskforce: Reviewed ongoing global promotional campaigns with key state officials and leadership from the Sri Lanka Hotels Association and Sri Lanka Inbound Tour Operators Association.