New Presidential Unit to unify tourism sector

In a strategic move to streamline and bolster the tourism industry, the Sri Lankan government has announced the formation of a new unit under the Presidential Secretariat dedicated to integrating all sectors of the tourism trade.

The initiative, revealed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, aims to create a cohesive and robust framework to drive the nation’s ambitious tourism goals, including making Sri Lanka a premier year-round travel destination.

The announcement followed a high-level discussion at the Presidential Secretariat on Friday (June 6), where President Dissanayake met with key stakeholders, including hotel owners, tour operators, and investors. The dialogue centered on developing effective strategies to attract tourists during the traditional off-season, or lean period, a critical step towards sustainable growth.

During the meeting, President Dissanayake emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing Sri Lanka’s tourism brand through targeted digital marketing, strengthening human capital via skill development and training, and attracting greater foreign investment into the sector.

The government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative also received positive feedback from industry leaders, with discussions on how to integrate this national programme into tourism promotion to enhance the country’s appeal as a clean and green destination.

Attending the crucial meeting were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath; Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage; Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Buddhika Hewawasam; and Chairman of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) Nalin Jayasundara.