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Sri Lanka Tourism Strategic Plane 2017 - 2020

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The vision of Sri Lanka Tourism is to establish and position Sri Lanka as Asia's most treasured and greenest island, with its beautiful beaches, warm and friendly people, with a strong nature, culture and adventure offering, raising its profile to that of an Asian tourism icon and make it the largest foreign exchange earner benefiting the stakeholders of tourism and the people of Sri Lanka.

To reach its vision, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority(SLTDA) strives to inspire, build and deliver 'Sri Lanka Tourism' as a key driver of Sri Lanka's economic growth, delighting our customers with passion and excellence, and enriching incomes of our stake holders. The Authority also hopes to benefit the Sri Lankan community by:

Being a catalyst to improve, enhance and maintain the much needed infrastructure

Establishing and enhancing a high quality product and service base to satisfy and delight tourists focusing on their safety and security

Ensuring a level of volume and yield generating tourists to sustain and grow investment in tourism.

Positioning Sri Lanka as a treasured island and a tourism Earth Lung working towards being carbon neutral making Sri Lanka a top of mind destination among potential customers.

Meeting the human resource demands of the industry through development of professionalism, skills development and training

Involving all sake holders in the formal and informal sectors, at the center and the regions, and within and out side of the industry to develop and promote Sri Lanka Tourism

Expanding the base of domestic tourism to better serve the travel needs of Sri Lankans and to help better promote international tourism

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority is committed to

Developing Sri Lanka as a tourist and travel destination both in Sri Lanka and abroad,

Advising the Minister in charge of the subject Tourism on matters relating to travel and the tourism industry, within the policy formulated by Cabinet of Ministers, in relation to this sector;

Providing guidance to the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau to develop, promote and market Sri Lanka as a tourist and travel destination both in Sri Lanka and abroad;

Providing guidance to the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management to undertake human resource training and development activities;

Working towards the enhancement of the tourism and travel sectors in order to secure a contribution for the expansion and development of the Sri Lankan economy;

Developing and promoting adequate, attractive and efficient tourist services, inclusive of the hospitality industry in a sustainable manner;

Licensing and accrediting tourist enterprises in order to develop, enforce and maintain locally and internationally accepted standards in relation to the tourism industry and other related industries;

Encouraging persons or bodies of persons in the private sector to participate in the promotion of the tourism industry and the promotional and training activities connected with such industry;

And to do all such other acts as may be necessary or conducive to the attainment of all or any of the above objectives.

Taking the above into consideration, and in order to facilitate growth in the Tourism industry, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has teamed up with the government and private and foreign sectors to draw investment and further new and existing product development.

Metadata Catalogue

• Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority

Brief Description of the organization

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is the official institution tasked with establishing, positioning, and developing Sri Lanka as a leading destination for international visitors and it is responsible for tapping into Sri Lanka’s natural potential to expand and enhance its tourism offering while benefitting investors and supporting communities, in a sustainable manner.

Prior to SLTDA being established in 2007, these functions primarily resided with the organization known as Ceylon Tourist Board / Sri Lanka Tourist Board / Sri Lanka Tourism Board which was set up in 1966 by the government of Sri Lanka an one instructional framework created under Ceylon Tourist board Act No. 10 of 1966.

Then The Tourism Development Act of 1968 provided the Ceylon Tourist Board with the statutory authority to develop tourism in a planned and controlled basis and allowed to obtain lands for development process. The Act also conferred powers for the Protection of Highways and Places of Scenic Beauty and vested authority in the Ceylon Tourist Board for the Registration and Classification of Tourist Hotels and all other tourist services.

The Tourism Act No 2005 came into effect in October 2007. With the circulation of the new Tourism act, the Sri Lanka Tourist Board Act No 10 of 1966, which was in effect for the past 41 years, was replaced. In terms of the provisions contained in the new act, the Tourism Development Fund was legally constituted, with 2 main sources remitting finances to the fund. By way of 1/3 of the Airport Tax collections and 1% of the Turnover of all Sri Lanka Tourist Board registered establishments. The Act provided for the setting up of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), thereby replacing the Sri Lanka Tourist Board. The new Tourism Boards set up under the new Tourism Act are:

• Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau
• Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management
• Sri Lanka Convention Bureau

To be recognized as the world's finest island for memorable, authentic and diverse experiences.

To be a high-value destination offering extraordinary experiences that reflect Sri Lanka's natural and cultural heritage, are socially inclusive and environmentally responsible, and provide economic benefits to communities and the country.

Data contributions

Hotels, Restaurants, Hotel Proposed, Tourism hot spots, Bank ATM, Shopping Malls, SLTDA Parcels

Role of SDI in their Business Process

Initial use case for NSDI was to develop a platform for investors to identify correct location for tourism investment (investor insights platform). There will be additional use case developed on NSDI on the completion of the said platform.

Name(s): Mr. Janath Palmadulla Junior Manager - Web ICT Department Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Tel :+94 112 426 900 | Ext: 110

You can use this system to access following services:

• Registering New Tourism Businesses
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• Get Involved

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• Overview of the ministry

Ministry of Tourism

• Introduction

Ministry of Tourism was established under the Gazette Extraordinary No. 2187/27, dated 09th August 2020, as   amended by the Gazette Extraordinary No. 2196/27, dated 06th October, 2020.   Strengthening the tourism industry as a high foreign exchange, income, employment and livelihood generating sector and thereby making Sri Lanka an attractive tourist destination highlighting Sri Lankan culture, biodiversity, eco friendliness and the friendly identity of the people are among the main objectives of the establishment of a dedicated Ministry in charge of the subject of tourism.

1.2. Vision, Mission

1.2.1. Vision

To be recognized as the world’s finest island for memorable, authentic and diverse experiences.

1.2.2. Mission

To be a high- value destination offering extraordinary experiences that reflect Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural heritage are socially inclusive and environmentally responsible and provide economic benefits to Communities and the country, while sustaining the flora & fauna 

1. 3. Key Functions

• Formulating, implementing, monitoring and evaluating policies, programmes and projects, related to subjects and functions under the purview of the Ministry.
• Providing policy guidance to relevant State Ministry, and formulating policies in relation to the subject of Tourism, in conformity with the prescribed Laws, Acts and Ordinances.
• Implementation of projects under the national budget, state Investment and National Development Programme.
• State Corporations and Statutory Institutions for the creation of "an environmental  and local culture friendly, high foreign exchange earning tourism industry” based on the national policies implemented by the government, and in accordance with the policy statement "Vistas of Prosperity and Splendor".

1. 3.1.  Special Priorities

• Formulating a programme for the development of the industry as an environment and local cultural friendly tourism with the broad participation of people.
• Formulation of a special mechanism for the safety of the tourists.
• Identifying new attractive destinations for the local/foreign tourist.
• Provision of facilities for the conduct of business seminars, functions, exhibitions and seminars in order to attract tourists.
• Providing investments and other facilities to the private sector for the development of tourism industry.
• Establishing tourist service centers at road junctions connecting the main tourist cities.
• Regulating the tourist facilities approval process through establishment of regional offices.
• Establishing tourism training schools in main tourist cities and introduction of attractive skill development courses
• Development of homestead and community-based tourism industry
• Initiating actions for the registration, training and certification of identity of all tourist guides and drivers
• Introduction of a special programme for creation of tourism industry related entrepreneurs.
• Provision of facilities for tourists by adoption of information technology
• Adoption of a methodology through one coordinating center under the One Stop concept
• Establishment of high standard tourism hotels, and doubling the number of hotel rooms currently available
• Introducing a methodology in imparting accurate knowledge and information to the tourist guides for the dissemination of correct information relating to national heritages and archeological sites among the tourists.

1.4. Organization Chart

1.5.  Institutions coming under the Ministry

• Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority
• Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau
• Sri Lanka Convention Bureau
• Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management
• Department of Botanical Gardens

Hon.Minister of Tourism

• 7th Floor, Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Sri Lanka.
• +94 11 239 5133
• info(at)tourismmin.gov.lk
• No. 696/4, Maradana Road, Colombo 10. Sri Lanka.
• +94 11 232 1222
• +94 11 243 6672

State Ministry of Tourism

• 18th Floor, Suhurupaya, Battaramulla Colombo. Sri Lanka.
• +94 11 218 7472
• +94 11 218 7471

අමාත්‍ය කාර්යාලය

• 7 වන මහල, බටහිර කුළුණ , ශ්‍රී ලංකා සංචාරක හා හෝටල් කළමනාකරණ පුහුණු ආයතනය, ගාලුපාර, කොළඹ 03. ශ්‍රී ලංකාව.

සංචාරක අමාත්‍යාංශය

• No. 696/4, මරදාන පාර , කොළඹ 10. ශ්‍රී ලංකාව.

සංචාරක රාජ්‍ය අමාත්‍යාංශය

• 18 වන මහල, සුහුරුපාය , බත්තරමුල්ල, කොළඹ ශ්‍රී ලංකාව.

கௌரவ சுற்றுலாத்துறை அமைச்சர்

• 7 வது மாடி, இலங்கை சுற்றுலா மற்றும் ஹோட்டல் முகாமைத்துவ நிறுவனம் காலி வீதி, கொழும்பு 03, இலங்கை.

சுற்றுலாத்துறை அமைச்சு

• 2 வது மாடி, எசெட் ஆர்கேட் (பிரைவேட்) லிமிடெட், இல. 51/2/1, யோர்க் வீதி கொழும்பு 01. இலங்கை.

சுற்றுலாத்துறை இராஜாங்க அமைச்சு

• 18 வது மாடி, சுஹுருபாய, பத்தரமுல்ல கொழும்பு இலங்கை.

Tourism News

News - tourism.

Mega Travel Influencer ‘Nas Daily’ join-hands to promote Tourism in Sri Lanka

Posted on July 20, 2018

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), under The Ministry of Tourism and Lands welcomed World's Top Travel Influencer Nusier Yassin also known as ''Nas Daily'’ to promote Sri Lanka as One of Best Travel Destinat

Sri Lanka celebrates its milestone surpassing 100,000 Russian arrivals through direct flights

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in collaboration with Airport and Aviation Services organized a special ceremony to celebrate 100,000 tourist arrivals from Russian Federation through direct flights.

Upcoming Events

Related videos, tourist police unit details, සංචාරක පොලිස් ඒකක විස්තර, சுற்றுலா பொலிஸ் பிரிவு விவரங்கள்.

The official email facility is temporarily out of service. Therefore, please use other contact methods to contact the Ministry of Tourism.

Saturday Aug 17, 2024

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Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024 edition debuts

Friday, 16 August 2024 00:04 -     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka Tourism recently announced the 7th edition of the National Tourism Awards, celebrating excellence and outstanding contribution. The objective is to promote and enhance service standards, encourage best practices, and foster a culture of excellence and innovation within the industry. By acknowledging the achievements of individuals and organisations, Sri Lanka Tourism aims to inspire others to contribute to the sustainable development of tourism in Sri Lanka. The first ever National Travel and Tourism Award was held in 2008. Since then, this annual event has been gathering momentum with more participation and recognition of new products and services. The last event was held in 2018 making a significant celebration of excellence within the industry. The subsequent occurrences such as Easter Sunday Attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the continuity of the prestigious event. It is in this context that Sri Lanka Tourism proudly presents Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024.  The awards encompass a wide range of categories to ensure every facet of the tourism industry is recognised.  These categories cover various sectors including accommodation, restaurants, tour operators, airlines, MICE tourism, marketing communications, education and training, events, excellence in service, etc.  Detailed information are available on its website tourismawards.lk. Application process: Applications and relevant information can be downloaded from the website www.tourismawards.lk Submissions are open from 15 August to 15 September 2024.

Sri Lanka reaches more than half of 2024 tourist arrivals target

August 10, 2024   10:19 pm

Sri Lanka has welcomed 26,889 tourists in the first four days of the month of August, according to the latest data issued by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).   Indians have topped the list, with 3,922 tourist arrivals recorded within the first four days of August, making up 14.6% of the total arrivals.   The United Kingdom claimed the second spot with a record of 3,350 tourist arrivals, corresponding to 12.5% of the total arrivals from August 01 to 04.   A Significant number of tourist arrivals have also been reported from China, France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands.   From January 01 to August 04, Sri Lanka welcomed a total of 1,224,948 tourists, already reaching the halfway point of the country’s tourism sector target of 2.3 million tourist visits this year.

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• Sustainability

Inaugural Session of Thema Talks Season 2 Achieves Net Zero Emission Status

On August 13, 2024, the inaugural session of Thema Talks Season 2 was held at Sherwood by the Barn, Panadura. This event was a collaborative effort between the Barn House Studio, Sherwood by the Barn and Control Union Sri Lanka. The event on ‘Low Carbon Emissions in Sri Lanka’s Hospitality Industry’ centered on strategies for reducing carbon emissions in the hospitality sector, exploring certification processes, and sharing success stories.

It featured a diverse panel of speakers discussing their organizations’ efforts and challenges in implementing low-carbon strategies. Mr Upali Ratnayake, Deputy Director General, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority opened the discussion by outlining the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority’s efforts towards low-carbon strategies. He emphasized the need for collaborative action to advance sustainability in tourism, stating, “Our challenge at SLTDA is to assist all stakeholders in meeting and overcoming their sustainability challenges. It is our responsibility to engage more actively in promoting this concept and making sustainability a widespread trend. Sustainability cannot be enforced solely through rules and regulations; it must be embraced as a shared responsibility.”

“When we’re talking about the global perspective, we need a global language and standards. So, in that sense, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council provides you with the pathway, the plan or criteria for how to align your process or practices more sustainably.” Mr. Chinthana Duminduhewa, Lead Trainer, Global Sustainable Tourism Council and Country Coordinator, at Green Destinations, highlighted the importance of global standards for sustainable practices. Mr. Roshan Ranawake, Managing Director, Control Union Sri Lanka emphasized the role of third-party certification in supporting greener tourism practices. He said, “As a third-party certification body, our primary objective is to be the impartial body to judge whether the organizations are meeting compliance levels. By implementing certification standards and offering our knowledge and expertise, we aim to support greener tourism.”

The discussion included insights from various perspectives. As a practitioner, Mr. Maxime Wickramasinghe, Director of Marketing and Business Development, at Thema Collection, stressed the importance of authenticity in sustainability efforts, saying, “Sometimes sustainability is not just about replacing your plastic water bottle with a glass bottle. It’s a never-ending scope, which you can’t just say. We need to tell our sustainability story while being authentic to ourselves without greenwashing it and it has been somewhat of a challenge.” Mr. Sameera Palliya Guruge, Resort Manager, The Barn House Sri Lanka & Sherwood by the Barn also shared their commitment to sustainability, “Barnhouse was the first event venue to be built from the upcycled material. Our core philosophy is going towards sustainability and lowering the impact on environment.” And added “When you come up with a sustainable or carbon-neutral event venue idea, you have to ensure everyone gets the right picture. We need to convince the customers and the vendors to think differently.”

The event itself was a model of sustainability, featuring natural lighting, renewable energy, locally sourced plant-based foods, recycled materials, and reduced plastic usage. The carbon footprint of the event was meticulously calculated at 276.83 kgCO 2e and offset by cancelling an equivalent amount of carbon credits from a recognized crediting scheme, facilitated by the Barn House and Thema Collection. This process was verified & supported by the Control Union Sri Lanka, making it the first hospitality industry event to achieve this level of sustainability in Sri Lanka.

For more information watch: Low Carbon Emissions in Sri Lanka’s Hospitality Industry

Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024

Sri Lanka Tourism is pleased to announce the 7 th edition of the National Tourism Awards, celebrating excellence and outstanding contribution in the travel and tourism industry. The objective is to promote and enhance service standards, encourage best practices, and foster a culture of excellence and innovation within the industry. By acknowledging the achievements of individuals and organizations, we aim to inspire others to contribute to the sustainable development of tourism in Sri Lanka.

The first ever National Travel & Tourism Award was held in 2008. Since then, this annual event has been gathering momentum with more participation and recognition of new products and services. The last event was held in 2018 making a significant celebration of excellence within the industry. The subsequent occurrences such as Easter Sunday Attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the continuity of the prestigious event. It is in this context that Sri Lanka Tourism proudly presents Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024.

Award Categories:

The awards encompass a wide range of categories to ensure every facet of the tourism industry is recognized. These categories cover various sectors including accommodation, restaurants, tour operators, airlines, MICE tourism, marketing communications, education and training, events, excellence in service, etc. Detailed information are available on our website tourismawards.lk.

Application Process: Applications and relevant information can be downloaded from the website www.tourismawards.lk  Submissions are open from 15 th August to 15 th September 2024.

For further information, please visit www.tourismawards.lk .

Research and International Relations Division Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority No. 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03

Email: [email protected] Phone: 077 303 9044 (Mr. Upali de Silva, Consultant)

Join us in celebrating the best of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry!

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Dear Industry Stakeholders, To safeguard our valued industry stakeholders and our employees; going forward we will be only accepting applications through our online portal which has the facility to upload documents. Please use our payment gateway for any payments. Original documents can be submitted via courier. All relevant details/requirements with contact numbers could be found on this page (below).

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Please Login with Online Tourism Business Licensing Service (OTBLS)  

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  View Mandatory Registration Notice               English        සිංහල  

Standards & Quality Assurance Department

Finance Department (TDL)

Ict department, bank details, for administration/renewal payments.

Bank: BOC Corporate Branch A/C Name: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority A/C No: 79746281

Bank: BOC Corporate Branch A/C Name: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority A/C No: 73104820

Please take your SLTDA registration number (e.g. SLTDA\SQA\..\..) when you go to BOC.

• Tourism Development Levy
• Sri Lanka Tourist Attractions
• Tourism News

Sri Lanka Tourism Strategic Plane 2017 - 2020

Download Application

English Application

Sinhala application, tamil application, registration and renewal process of all tourist establishments.

Payment Structure for Tourist Establishments

Registration Process / Steps

Renewal Process / Steps

ACCOMMODATION SERVICE

Hotel facilities usually include en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning or climate control, telephone facilities, an alarm clock, a television, and internet connectivity (free, or to be purchased.)The rooms may be equipped with a mini-bar, a kettle, and tea and coffee making facilities. Larger hotels may provide a number of additional guest facilities such as a restaurant, a swimming pool, and childcare services. Many hotels also offer conference and social function services.

For further details, please contact our representatives.

Ms. Sujeewa Amarasena

Mr. suranga liyanapathirana.

Registered Classified Tourist Hotels

Registered tourist hotels.

Registration/Renewal Process (Tourist Hotel)

Registration/Renewal Process (Classified Hotel)

Gazette Notification on Tourist Hotels

Draft Criterias for Classification of Tourist Hotels

Boutique Hotels/Villas

Boutique hotels and villas are usually luxurious, personalized, or quirky hotels environments. They differentiate themselves from the larger chain and branded hotels and motels by providing personalized accommodation, with superior services, focusing on ambiance and privacy. They are also known as "design hotels" or "lifestyle hotels."

Ms. Kumudini Gunawardena

Registered boutique villas, registered boutique hotels.

Registration/ Renewal Process

Guideline Boutique Hotels

"Please note that the guidelines for both Boutique Hotels and Boutique Villas are the same. However, Boutique Villas must have a minimum of 5 rooms."

Guest Houses

Guest Houses are small establishments with 05 or more letting bedrooms. They often cater to Free Independent Travellers (FITs) and offer only basic amenities and facilities compared to hotels.

For further details, please contact our representative.

Mr. NalinHettiarachchi

Registered guest houses.

Registration/Renewal Process

Guidelines for Guest House Operations

Relevant Gazette for Guest Houses

Bungalows/Rented Homes & Apartments

Home stays are becoming popular providers of tourist accommodation. This is the practise of renting out a room or residence of a local resident. The terms of home stays may vary and are usually agreed upon in advance between the host and the guest.

Mr. M Jeyakrishnan

Mr. dayananda ratnayake, registered bungalows, registered rented homes, registered rented apartments.

Registration/Renewal Process (Bungalow)

Registration/Renewal Process (Rented Apartments)

Registration/Renewal Process (Rented Homes)

Registration/Renewal Process (Heritage Homes)

Registration/Renewal Process (Heritage Bungalow)

Home Stays Guidelines(Sinhala)

Home Stays Guidelines(Tamil)

Home Stay Unit is a concept that provides maximum 4 bed rooms in your own residence with lodging arrangement where individuals, typically travelers or students, reside in a private residence with a host family. In a homestay, guests often have their own room and share common spaces, such as the kitchen and living room, with the host family. This type of accommodation offers a more immersive experience into the local culture, as guests have the opportunity to interact with and be a part of the daily life of the host family. Homestays are common in various contexts, including travel, cultural exchange programs, and language learning experiences.

Registered Home Stays

Registration/Renewal Process (Home Stays)

Registration guidelines for Homestays

Service Apartments

Service Apartments offer similar services to hotels, but they provide mini-apartment style units, rather than stand-alone rooms. They utilize a booking system similar to a hotel and offer amenities including a kitchenette.

“Please note the following is a draft version of the gazette and is in evolution. Kindly do not base your final construction/business plans on this document. You may, however, refer to this for purposes of discussion, and as to what may potentially be future law.”

Regulations for Service Apartment Registration

Ayurvedic Hotels

Ayurveda is a type of indigenous traditional herbal medicine practiced in Sri Lanka. These establishments offer treatments that may include massages, steam baths, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga, under the guidance of an Ayurvedic Physician.

Hostel Accommodation

A Hostel Accommodation is a budget-oriented, shared-rooms or "dormitory" accommodation for individual travelers (commonly backpackers) or groups for short-term stays with common areas and facilities.

Registration/Renewal Process - Tourist Hostel

Guidelines and Standards For Hostel Accommodation

THEMED ACCOMMODATION & VALUE ADDED ACTIVITIES

A Tourist Accommodation facility developed according to a “Theme” based on  environmental and/or cultural features capitalized with design, fixtures and materials,  highlighting the “Theme” enabling the guest to see, feel and experience the “Theme.”

Ms. Kumuduni

Registration Process

Required Documents for Registration & Renewal

Themed Accomodation Registration Guideline

CAMPING SITES

A camping and/or caravanning site is defined as a demarcated area of land specifically developed to provide sleeping accommodation either in tents or in caravans and also common amenities for living, in an environment bordering or encircling outstanding natural or cultural attractions. These can be located either in a restricted area (e.g. wildlife, nature and forest reserves or buffer zones or sacred areas) or in a non-restricted area.

Mr. Anupa Ranaweera

Guidelines for Camping Site

Eco lodges is a visitor accommodation facility meeting minimum standards, designed and custom built in pristine natural locations, often of significant ecological importance, having strong programs of conservation protecting the environment from pollution and degradation, using technologies to reduce energy consumption and waste, having ethical employment practices and strong measures to pass on tangible socio economic benefits to the neighboring local communities. Commonly use best practice by eco lodges “Leave nothing but foot prints and take nothing but memories”.

Guidelines for Echo Lodges

Heritage Tourist Hotel

Intangible culture is the principal motivation for travel, with Tourists seeking to engage with new cultures and to experience the global variety of performing arts, handicrafts, rituals, and cuisines, a niche high-end market of Tourists would prefer to stay in heritage enrich accommodation facilities during their travel.

As defined, A Heritage Tourist Hotel shall be located in a building declared under the Antiquities Ordinance No. 09 of 1940 or shall be in an ancient construction with Historical and Archaeological value which has been constructed prior to 1920 (not less than 100 years of age) which can be declared under the Antiquities  (Amendment)  Act No. 24 of 1988. The exterior of the building shall not be interfered with or modified from the original appearance. Any additions carried out shall be done in such a manner that the external appearance is maintaining the original architectural features as far as practically possible. After expansion and alterations the newly built-up area shall not be more than 50% of the combined total built-up area (excluding swimming pools) of the new and old. The services provided to the guests shall reflect the type of service which prevailed during the era of the building.

Guideline Heritage Hotels

Tourist Apartment Hotel

A Tourist Apartment Hotel is a purpose-built facility consisting of a number of individual apartments, individually or wholly owned and including all hotel services operated by a single entity, with luxury star class facilities.

Guideline Tourist Apartment Hotel

OTHER SERVICE

Restaurants.

A restaurant prepares and serves food and drink to customers. Meals are generally served and consumed, in-house although a takeaway and delivery service could also be available. Restaurants vary in appearance and offerings. A wide variety of cuisines and service models are offered.

Guests could be served by waiters or obtain their food from the counter or serve in buffet style.

Our staff at the SLTDA are always on hand to assist potential investors.

Registered Restaurants

Guidelines for Restaurant Registration

Relevant Gazette for Restaurants

Spa & Wellness Centre

An aura of tranquility embraces you as you enter the precincts of an Ayurveda Health Centre. You are also advised on how to maintain your health and beauty. You are cleansed, exfoliated, massaged and wrapped in a rich herbal paste of flowers, bark, and leaves and rested, for juices to seep into your body and enrich your soul. Almost all prescriptions used in curing are produced by raw materials found naturally and no artificial substances are used. These would come from the roots, stems, barks, leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits & nuts of many a plant. From the animals: milk, honey, pearls, musk, shells and from the earth: iron, gold, silver & copper are used.

A tourist is initiated to this great form of medication through Ayurvedic Health Centres, Health Spa's and Wellness Centres they frequent while on tour on our island. Most of the treatments practiced in these centers are based on Ayurveda and in some centers Japanese, Chinese & Thai methods of therapy, as well as Aromatherapy, is used.

Treatment is always administered under the guidance of an Ayurvedic medical practitioner or expert in spa method treatment. Combining the Ayurvedic form of medicine gives you not only relaxation of the mind and body, but will also treat the organs of the body to function properly through the administration of drugs using natural ingredients in relieving deep seated diseases as well as maintaining your good health.

Registered Spa & Wellness Centres

Guidelines for Spa and Wellness Centres Registration

Spice Gardens

Today spices are grown in spice gardens of Sri Lanka for export purposes and to be used medicinally and in Sri Lankan cuisine and also as agro-tourism projects.

Cinnamon that is grown in spice gardens of Sri Lanka has been a favorite spice since ancient times. The plant is native to spice gardens of Sri Lanka. The smell of cinnamon in spice gardens of Sri Lanka is the sweetest and most delicious.

Cardamom is popular in the Middle East and is one of the most valuable spice crops of spice gardens of Sri Lanka. Cardamom plants require a shaded environment. The real secret of the spice gardens of Sri Lanka is the curry leaf tree. The aroma coming from the freshly picked leaves can spice up an entire curry dish. It is a scent that can be smelled all over Sri Lanka and India.

Registered Spice Gardens

Guidelines for Spice Garden and Shop Registration

Relevant Gazette for Spice Gardens

Tour Guides (Chauffeur / National Guide / Area Guide / Site Guide)

SLTDA offers tourist guides, chauffeur tourist guides and travel agents many varied types of training to ascertain their competence at the job, and to maintain industry standards. The Sri Lankan Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management has been set up to equip young men and women in the multifaceted field of Hospitality and Travel.

Mr. Neranjan Welipitiya

Registered Tour Guides

Declaration Of Non-Conviction

Check List To Submit The Documents (Registration)

Renewal Of Guide License On Compilation Of 65 Years

Tourist Guide Identity Card Application

Tourist Friendly Eating Places

An establishment with a minimum of 8 covers and a maximum of 39 covers where prepares and/or serves food, drink, and dessert to customers on the commercial operation.

The “eating places” which are taken into consideration here are the places that do not comply with gazetted registration guidelines for restaurants by SLTDA but similar places that cater to the domestic and foreign travelers mainly in touristic areas.

Certification Process

• Step 01  – Identifying Eating Places who has the capacity to be improved as per the Guidelines by random visits by the Inspection team members to such places within Tourism zones in the country (later the owners of such Eating Places will be able to submit an application to SLTDA to obtain the “Tourism Friendly Eating Places” Certification)
• Step 02  – Informing Short-comings to the owners of the Eating Places
• Step 03  – Re-Inspect the places once the short-comings are rectified and fill-up the Mark sheet by the Inspection Team
• Step 04  – Awarding of Certification – “Grade A” or “Grade B”

Grade A  – For those places who got more than 75% at the final inspection

Grade B - For those places who got between 50% and 74% at the final inspecti

Way Forward… It is intended to implement the same Certification scheme in all tourism zones in the country and to give publicity to the logo of “Tourism Friendly Eating Places” in Local print and electronic media and in international magazines and websites.

Registered Eating Places

Guidelines for Tourist-Friendly Eating Places

Tourist Shops

Shops that are set up for tourism purposes are permitted to sell merchandise from a fixed location, such as a department store, small stores and through the post. Retailing may include subordinated services, such as delivery. Purchasers may be individuals or businesses

Registered Tourist Shops

Guidelines for Tourist Shop Registration

Guidelines for Handicrafts & Batik and Gem & Jewellery

Relevant Gazette for Tourist Shops

Travel Agents (Destination Management Companies)

Travel Agencies is a retail business, that sells travel-related products and services, particularly package tours to customers, on behalf of suppliers, such as airlines, car rentals, cruise lines, hotels, railways, sightseeing tours, and tour operators

In addition to dealing with ordinary tourists, most travel agencies have a separate department focused on arranging travel itineraries for business travelers. Certain travel agencies specialize in commercial and business travel. There are also travel agencies that serve as general sales agents for foreign travel companies, allowing them to have offices in countries other than where their headquarters are located. Our staff at the SLTDA are always on hand to assist potential investors.

Ms. Sandaprabha Kathriarachchi

List of travel agents, list of suspended travel agents.

Registration / Renewal Process Travel Agency

Request to issue Bank Guarantee for Travel Agents

Gazzeted Criterias for Travel Agents

Water Sports Centre

With an endless variety of white sandy golden beaches, Sri Lanka offers a vibrant range of adventure sports in Sri Lanka. Azure waters with a colorful variety of marine species and unceasing spotless beaches offer ample opportunities for adventure sports in Sri Lanka. The colorful corals invite you to take the plunge into the deep waters.

You can also see several ancient wrecks, caves & fascinating reef formations while engaging in scuba diving, one of the major Sri Lanka adventure sports.

Sheltering over 90 species of freshwater fish & 21 species of crabs, Sri Lanka offers a fascinating experience of fishing, one of the major adventure sports in Sri Lanka. Several quiet bays lined up with a variety of private villas along the south coast offer you an exciting & wonderful experience with a variety of opportunities for adventure sports in Sri Lanka.

Registered Water Sports Centres

Relevant Gazette for Water Sports

Proposed Adventure Activities

General Guidelines for all Adventure Activities Registration

Guidelines for Water-Based Adventure Activities Registration

Tourist Drivers

Driver ID card issuing process

Tourism driver ID issuing process

Training & Registraion for New Drivers

Next Tourist Driver Four-Day Training programme:

• Schedule: 26th to 29th August 2024
• Time: 8.30am to 4.00pm
• Course Fee: Rs. 5000/-
• Application Closing Date: 15th August 2024

* Only 150 applications are accepted for 2024 - Batch IV , please apply with the relevant documents

Online to google application

Applying for Driver ID Card - After the training programme

සංචාරක රියදුරු මහතෙකු සඳහා මාර්ගෝපදේශ සහ චර්‍යධර්ම

Application to Renewal of Tourist Driver Identity Card (ID) Issued by SLTDA

For Inquiries - [email protected]

Food court, as a special catering service place, has its own unique attractive character where a very wide variety of cuisine is available in one location. The unique ambience, very different from a conventional restaurant, created in a food court will provide an experience where the gustatory and optic nerves simultaneously will allure you to  linger on, even if one is not really hungry or too tired to sit through a full meal. That is the charm of a food court.  

A food court is generally an indoor or outdoor plaza or common area within a facility that is contiguous with the counters of multiple food vendors and provides a common area for self-serve dining.

Registered Food Courts

Guidelines for Food Court New Registration

Destination Event Management Companies (DEMC)

Destination Events in Sri Lanka, organized by Local Event Management Companies, are designed to boost Sri Lanka's attractiveness as a destination for both local and international participants. Virtual Events occur online, while Hybrid Events combine physical and virtual components, engaging both on-site and remote audiences.

Physical Events involve in-person gatherings. Destination Event Management Companies (DEMC) oversee event planning and execution in Sri Lanka, regardless of the event type.

Meetings & Incentives Management Companies (MIMC) specialize in corporate meetings and incentive events, handling logistics and execution. Conference Management Companies (CMC) professionally organize large events for smooth operations.

Trade Fairs/Exhibitions/Seminars Management Companies (TESMC) coordinate trade shows, exhibitions, and seminars to promote networking and knowledge sharing.

Destination Wedding Management Companies (DWMC) manage all aspects of weddings in Sri Lanka, including legal requirements.

Corporate Business Event Management Companies (CBEMC) ensure successful corporate events, from conferences to product launches.

Sprint/Stage Races Management Companies (SSRMC) organize adventure racing events with logistical support and safety measures.

International Sport Event Management Companies (ISEMC) handle global sports events with logistics and media coverage.

Other Event Operators (EO) manage various gatherings, ensuring seamless execution for diverse events, from music shows to recruitment drives.

Requirements for Registration

Registration / Renewal Process

Board resolution form format

Insurance details form

Tourist Vessel Operations

Tourist vessel operations in Sri Lanka offer a unique experience for visitors to explore the island's beautiful coastline and surrounding waters. From exploring water creatures to island hopping, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities on these vessels, accompanied by experienced crew members. With safety as a top priority, these vessels provide a thrilling adventure while maintaining high standards of service to tourists.

Ms. Hashini Chaya

Documents Requirement

Operations Guidelines

Manual Application

Air Based Adventure Tourism Activities

We are delighted to announce that the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has collaborated with a committee of professionals, including industry experts, to develop guidelines for a series of Adventure Tourism Activities. These guidelines have been published herewith to create awareness within the industry for both air-based and water-based activities. We are also pleased to inform you that guidelines for land-based Adventure Tourism activities will be published in the near future. To ensure the safety of all visitors, we highly recommend that all industry professionals adhere to the guidelines set by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. We are currently developing an online application system for registration of Adventure Tourism Activities, and we will be updating our website with more information on registration shortly. Air Based Activities: Air-based adventure tourism activity" means an activity carried out in the air with adequate safety requirements in an exclusively demarcated area without posing any danger or causing pollution to the natural environment. This may include skydiving, paragliding, paramotoring, hot air ballooning, and other similar activities.

Adventure Tourism Category Introduction

Guideline For Kite Surfing, kite boarding & wind surfing

Guideline For Whale and Dolphin Watching

Guideline for rafting & white water rafting

Guideline for surfing body boarding & paddle boarding

Guidelines for Leisure Boat

Guideline for Scuba Diving

Guideline for Sport Fishing

Guideline for Rowing

Guideline for Sailing

Guideline for Canoeing Kayaking & Dragon Boating Water Based Adventure Tourism Activities

Guideline for Jet Skiing

Guideline for House Boats

Guidelines for Sky Diving

Guideline for Paragliding

Guideline for Paramotoring

Guideline for Hot Air Ballooning

Water Based Adventure Tourism Activities

We are delighted to announce that the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has collaborated with a committee of professionals, including industry experts, to develop guidelines for a series of Adventure Tourism Activities. These guidelines have been published herewith to create awareness within the industry for both air-based and water-based activities. We are also pleased to inform you that guidelines for land-based Adventure Tourism activities will be published in the near future. To ensure the safety of all visitors, we highly recommend that all industry professionals adhere to the guidelines set by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. We are currently developing an online application system for registration of Adventure Tourism Activities, and we will be updating our website with more information on registration shortly. Water Based Activities: “Water-based Adventure Tourism activity” means - an activity carryout in inland, brackish & marine water with adequate safety requirements in an exclusively demarcated area without any danger or pollution to the natural environment. This may include Whale & Dolphin Watching, White Water Rafting, Canoeing & Kayaking, Dragon Boating, Scuba Diving /Snorkeling, Surfing/Body Boarding/paddle Boarding, Kite Surfing/Wind Surfing and other similar activities.

Guideline for Water Skiing, Wakeboarding

Land Based Adventure Tourism Activities

Tourist luxury camping/ caravanning sites/ mobile camping.

Camping is an outdoor activity involving overnight stays in temporary or semi-permanent shelters, with or without essential services. Organized camping primarily occurs at pre-selected camp sites, defined as designated areas of land offering sleeping accommodations in tents or caravans, along with common amenities, near outstanding natural or cultural attractions. These sites may be situated in restricted areas like wildlife reserves or unrestricted ones.

Camping options include:

1. Tourist Luxury Camping/Glamping: Providing premium and deluxe facilities, Glamping offers a more luxurious camping experience than traditional camping. 2. Caravan Camping/RVs: RV camping allows travelers to stay in recreational vehicles with amenities like sleeping quarters, kitchens, and bathrooms, combining the comforts of home with the freedom of camping. 3. Mobile Camping: Also known as expedition or mobile tented camping, it involves setting up and relocating camps frequently, allowing participants to explore diverse landscapes. These guidelines aim to ensure safe and enjoyable camping experiences catering to various preferences, from the simplicity of traditional camping to the luxury of Glamping and the mobility of RV and mobile camping, while emphasizing the importance of conservation.

Vehicle Safari Tour Operations

A vehicle safari tour operation refers to a business or service that organizes and conducts guided tours operated by professional safari operators, stationed outside those national parks and reserves. in specially designed vehicles to explore natural habitats, wildlife reserves, or scenic landscapes authorized by the Department of Wildlife conservation or the Department of Forest Conservation or relevant government institutions. These tours typically focus on providing participants with an immersive and close-up experience of observing wild animals, birds, and other natural attractions in their native environment with degree of risk.

Hiking, Trekking, Nature & Heritage Walk

Hiking, trekking, and nature & heritage walks are distinct outdoor activities that vary in terms of difficulty, duration, and focus. Hiking typically involves moderately easy walks on well-marked trails, usually lasting half a day to a full day, with the level of difficulty depending on the location and terrain. On the other hand, trekking is more challenging, featuring longer journeys with rougher terrain. Trekking adventures often span two or more days and require greater physical endurance. Nature & Heritage Walks combine an exploration of natural and heritage areas, with a guide providing insights into the local ecology and historical significance of the surroundings. These walks can take place on either public or private land, each with its own set of legal requirements, guidelines, and visitor facilities. Whether on public or private land, participants can choose to embark on these experiences independently or enlist the services of a certified guide or an assigned "Trekker/Tracker" for a more informative and structured adventure. The choice between these activities ultimately depends on individual preferences, fitness levels, and the desire for a deeper understanding of the natural and cultural aspects of the terrain.

Guidelines Camping

Guidelines Vehicle Safari Tour Operations

Guidelines Vehicle Hiking Trekking Nature & heritage Walk

Tourism APP (Digital platforms)

A tourism app is a software product that runs on any information technology-based platform, such as the web, mobile, or virtual reality. It facilitates tourists by providing them with travel guides, maps, local attractions, accommodation booking, transportation options, restaurant recommendations, and other relevant information. Tourism apps can also be used to conduct commercial transactions, such as booking hotels. To be considered a tourism app, the product must meet certain requirements, such as having a secure platform, providing adequate support to users, and operating as per industry standards. Tourism apps that are meant for facilitating tourists visiting Sri Lanka must also have a 100% owned legal entity registered within Sri Lanka. The objective of the tourism app registration process is to recognize and formalize the services of tourism apps and companies that facilitate tourists visiting Sri Lanka. This will help to ensure that tourists receive satisfactory and legitimate services, and that they are protected under the law.

Tourism App Registration Guideline

Registration/Renewal- Process

Request letter for a Bank Guarantee

Tourist City Tour / Open Deck City Tour / City Sightseeing Operations

A Tourist City Tour Service Provider is either an individual or an organization providing sightseeing facilities to tourist in and around the city in safe and comfortable vehicles. The vehicles shall be chauffer driven with the services of a guide.

Blacklisted Service Providers

Blacklisted travel agencies, associations, registration of associations involved in tourism.

Registration of Association in Sri Lanka Tourism Tourism industry stakeholders have incorporated Associations Island wide to assist their members to market their products & services. As the focal point, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has decided to develop a proper communication channel with all the Associations involved in tourism by registering them.

Why registration is required? The objective of this initiative is to standardize the Associations, their services and create a centralized database for easy and faster communication of the matters which are directly benefiting or affecting the industry such as a crisis.

Benefits of registration

• Legal recognition as a Service Providers Association in tourism
• Become a part of the tourism communication channel
• Eligibility to apply for benefit packages offered by the Government
• Attend professional development programs 
• Eligibility to represent Sri Lanka in overseas promotional activities

Registered Associations involved in Tourism

Association Registration & Renewal Information

Terms and Conditions for Registration of Association

Format for Detailed Information Requirements

Important Notice : You will need to upload the required documentation to the system as part of the registration or renewal application process. Please note that copies certified by a lawyer confirming their authenticity, and marked as "true copies," may be submitted via a special Courier Service.

The details of the courier service will be sent to you via email during the application process. This service is available for both new registrations and renewals of licenses. Please DO NOT send any original documents to SLTDA for verification purpose, or personally deliver documents to SLTDA. Please contact our help desk for any clarification.

Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake honoured in send-off salute

Weekly economic indicators 16.08.2024, tt rates as at 16.08.2024, weather forecast, judge r. m. sobitha rajakaruna appointed acting president of the court of appeal, sri lanka commits to fair trade collaboration: edb and international fair trade networks sign a cooperation framework, treasury bill issuance held on 14.08.2024, palestinian ambassador to sri lanka, dr. zuhair m.h. zaid, meets with the speaker, parliament to meet next week only on the 21st - the committee on parliamentary business decides, the central bank of sri lanka releases the monetary policy report - august 2024.

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Sri Lanka Launches Ambitious “30×30 – Conservation and Prosperity for Nature and People” Program

• Sri Lanka Committed to Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development – Chief of Presidential Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka.

Chief of Staff to the President and Senior Advisor on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to nature conservation and sustainable development. Speaking at the launch of the “Sri Lanka 30×30 – Conservation and Prosperity: for Nature and People” initiative recently at the Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo, he highlighted the nation’s dedication to ensuring a healthy planet for future generations through sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

Mr. Ratanayaka noted that Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration program has received international acclaim for its success. He highlighted that the government has implemented several such projects aimed at protecting sensitive ecosystems and reinforcing the country s commitment to environmental conservation.

Mr. Ratnayaka emphasized that the “Sri Lanka 30×30” program showcases the nation s commitment to supporting local communities and contributing to global conservation efforts. He stressed that cooperation and partnerships are crucial for protecting Sri Lanka s unique ecosystems and achieving the program’s ambitious goals.

The implementation of these projects, overseen by the Chief of Presidential Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka, is a top national priority. The initiative was coordinated by the Presidential Secretariat Climate Change Office. Key government departments involved in the design of the projects included the Department of Wildlife Conservation, Forest Department, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and several others dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development.

This initiative aimed at conserving the nation’s unique biodiversity while promoting sustainable economic prosperity. This landmark approach to develop a set of projects while balancing conservation and development is a significant step towards Sri Lanka’s commitment to sustainable development and green economic revival.

The “Sri Lanka 30×30” program is designed to attract over USD 1.5 billion in investments between 2025 and 2030. The launch event witnessed the participation of over 95 government entities, local and international non-governmental organizations, and corporates, all unified in their support for this ambitious initiative.

The program aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted by Sri Lanka and 195 other countries in 2022 at the COP15 biodiversity conference in Montreal. The GBF outlines 23 targets focusing on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, aimed at benefiting both nature and people.

As part of the “Sri Lanka 30×30” initiative, the government has identified nine national priority conservation programs, each designed to address critical environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices including; Improve the protection and connectivity of wet zone ecosystems; Halt forest loss in the dry zone by increasing protection; Restore degraded forest and mangrove habitats; Sustainably develop and enhance protected area tourism to fund conservation. Improve human-elephant coexistence; Enhance the health and productivity of river systems, starting with the Kelani River basin; Enhance conservation of marine ecosystems for the benefit of nature and people;

Strengthen sustainable fishery management practices and reverse the Ensuring sustainable use of fish stocks and reversing the decline of key commercial species; Protect marine megafauna by reducing disturbances to whales caused by whale watchers and ships.

Sri Lanka’s rich natural capital offers immense potential for a green economic revival. By conserving its biodiversity and promoting sustainable resource management, the country aims to build a resilient economy that benefits future generations.

Addressing the gathering Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka further elaborated:

Our commitment to a green economy is a testament to our vision for a sustainable future one where economic development goes hand in hand with environmental preservation, ensuring that we leave a healthy planet for future generations. Sri Lanka’s dedication to nature conservation and sustainable development is unwavering. We have embraced the 30×30 program, a global initiative aimed at protecting 30% of the world’s lands and oceans by 2030. Some of these initiatives are already underway, with the mangrove development program receiving international recognition as a very successful effort.

This ambitious goal reflects our commitment to safeguarding our biodiversity and natural resources. The initiatives under the 30×30 program are not just about meeting targets; they are about making a real difference. They demonstrate our resolve to protect our unique ecosystems, support local communities, and contribute to global conservation efforts. However, we cannot achieve these goals alone. Collaboration and partnership are crucial, just as they were during the crisis.

Today, I extend a heartfelt invitation and a warm welcome to all our partners. We invite you to actively participate and contribute to the planned projects. Your expertise, innovative ideas, and commitment are invaluable. Together, we can achieve remarkable outcomes. By sharing your knowledge and experiences, you enrich our initiatives, making them more robust and effective.

Dr. Ananda Mallawatantri, Advisor to the President on Environment, Climate Change and Green Finance, highlighted the financial and environmental benefits of the program:

“We observed that various financial institutions, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission, Colombo Stock Exchange and Ministry of Finance are focusing on green bonds with a strong corporate interest. In response to that demand, we’ve initiated development of several projects that will be suitable to attract investments though green financing. This effort will complement the Ministry of Finance led and UNDP supported Marine Investment Planning and projects being developed for Global Environment Facility and Green Climate Fund, among others. This initiative will create green jobs and garner significant backing of corporates and international donors, because we’ve established the necessary platform for it. For example, one of the projects is to transform tourism’s income and expenditure with better services and quality enhancements while enhancing the fund management strategies which needs both public and corporate support using global experiences too.

This project approach is ambitious, but with careful planning and a clear timeline, it could pave the way to reach our broader goal is to integrate biodiversity conservation into our green economy efforts, whether in agriculture, energy, waste or water management. To support the process and the enabling environment we have started adopting natural capital accounting and designing of information systems to enhance project management effectiveness tracking that also will provide ways to measure the conservation impacts of initiatives on air, soil, water, and biodiversity.

By protecting critical ecosystems, ensuring the quality of ecosystem services and promoting Environment, Social and Governance we could support the Sri Lanka exports and establish Sri Lanka as a green destination. For example, EU Green Challenge require export projects to come from unpolluted river basins that require we clean the Kelani River where three key export zones are located.

We’re working on mitigating forest loss in the dry zone, enhance biodiversity conservation in the wet zone by working on fragmented forest patches, improving elephant coexistence, and managing fisheries, effectively. This set of first wave of project also aims to reshape the economic model of tourism while enhancing environmental conservation.”

The “Sri Lanka 30×30” initiative is a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders, reflecting a shared commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. By leveraging international support and local expertise, Sri Lanka is poised to become a leader in green development and biodiversity conservation. As the nation embarks on this transformative journey, the “Sri Lanka 30×30” program stands as a testament to its dedication to protecting its natural heritage while fostering economic growth and stability.

The event was graced by the members of the diplomatic community, representatives of the international organizations, senior government officials, representatives from the multilateral and bilateral agencies, non-governmental agencies and a number of distinguished guests.

SL Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) - July 2024

13th Sri Lanka Economic Research Conference 2024: ‘Back to Basics’ Policy Stance as a Way Out of the Economic Crisis

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Investment min. asserts depth of historic ties between Egypt, Sri Lanka

Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan al-Khatib emphasized the deep and strong historical ties between Egypt and Sri Lanka, highlighting the importance of working to enhance mutual investments and bilateral trade between the two countries.

This came during a meeting between the minister and Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry as they discussed ways to develop investment cooperation and achieve commercial integration between the two countries.

The meeting was attended by CEO of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) Hossam Heiba, Minister Plenipotentiary for Trade Yahya al-Wathiq Billah, Head of the Commercial Representation, and several senior officials from the ministry.

On the Sri Lankan side, the meeting was attended by Director-General of Middle East and Africa Affairs at the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lakshitha Ratnayake and Acting Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Egypt Thulan Bandara.

El-Khatib noted that the meeting discussed priority investment sectors, including the textile and ready-made garment industry, tourism, infrastructure, and small and micro enterprises.

He emphasized the existence of many success stories of Sri Lankan companies that have transferred their investments to Egypt in sectors such as textiles and ready-made garments and project financing, such as companies like Hela Clothing, NATURUB, LOLC, Hirdaramani, and Teejay.

For his part, the Sri Lankan foreign minister emphasized Egypt’s distinguished position as an investment and trade partner for Sri Lanka, praising the Egyptian government’s efforts to create an attractive investment climate and strengthen trade partnerships.

Sabry pointed out that there are many investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, particularly in new and renewable energy and infrastructure projects that serve the country’s tourism purposes.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to organize a trade and investment mission to visit Sri Lanka at the end of this year to explore opportunities for joint cooperation between private sector representatives from both countries.

They also stressed the importance of activating the Joint Business Council and beginning technical consultations on a preferential trade agreement, which would encourage trade exchange between the two sides.

They also emphasized the importance of holding the next session of the Joint Ministerial Committee for Economic and Technical Cooperation.

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