Sri Lanka looks for global partnerships to transform tourism industry

Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe

As countries around the world emerge from the challenges of the pandemic, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a premier tourist destination, aiming to tap into global partnerships to drive its tourism industry forward. 

The government has outlined ambitious strategies to enhance its tourism infrastructure, improve service standards and create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both the economy and local communities.

Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe yesterday extended an open invitation to international tourism institutions, companies and organisations to collaborate with Sri Lanka on its transformation journey. 
“We warmly welcome you to experience Sri Lanka’s real and heartfelt hospitality,” Prof. Ranasinghe said. 
“By extending your support, you can be part of an inspiring success story while enjoying the unmatched beauty, culture and warmth that our nation offers.”

The government’s strategy focuses on fostering international partnerships to introduce innovative solutions, improve tourism infrastructure and unlock new avenues for growth. 

This collaborative approach aims to create a resilient and competitive tourism ecosystem that can adapt to the evolving needs of the global travellers, Prof. Ranasinghe said in an interview carried out internally by the ministry. Highlighting the socioeconomic potential of tourism, Prof. Ranasinghe emphasised how the industry could drive both economic and social progress. 

“The transformative potential of tourism in driving both economic and social progress is immense. Initiatives such as training programmes, small business funding and cultural preservation projects will further integrate citizens into the tourism value chain.”

In line with these goals, Sri Lanka has set a target of attracting five million tourists by 2030. The focus is not only on increasing tourist numbers but also on elevating the quality of tourism experiences, with an emphasis on emerging trends such as MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) tourism and bleisure (business + leisure) tourism.

According to Prof. Ranasinghe, this a collective mission that unites Sri Lankans and invites the world to join hands to help create a legacy of success, empowerment and global recognition.