sri lanka tourism statistics 2021

Sri Lanka Tourist Arrivals

The number of foreign tourist arrivals in sri lanka soared by 102.8% year-on-year to 218.4 thousand in february 2024, following a 103.1% jump in the previous month. among key markets, russian federation was the largest source of foreign tourists at 15%, followed by india (14%), uk (9%), germany (7%), china (7%), france (6%), poland (3%), australia (3%), us (2%), and netherlands (2%). considering the first two months of the year, foreign tourist arrivals surged 103% to 426.6 thousand compared to the same period of the previous year. source: ceylon tourist board, tourist arrivals in sri lanka increased to 218350 in february from 208253 in january of 2024. tourist arrivals in sri lanka averaged 54111.57 from 1977 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 253169.00 in december of 2018 and a record low of 0.00 in april of 2020. this page provides - sri lanka tourist arrivals - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news. sri lanka tourist arrivals - data, historical chart, forecasts and calendar of releases - was last updated on march of 2024.,   markets,   gdp,   labour,   prices,   money,   trade,   government,   business,   consumer,   housing,   taxes,   health,   climate.

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Sri Lanka welcomes 194,000 tourists in 2021 amid rebound hopes

Friday January 7, 2022 5:11 pm

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka has welcomed 194,495 tourists in 2021 down from around 2.3 million in 2018 before the pandemic with 89,506 tourists arriving in December up from just 393 the previous year, data from the state tourism promotion office showed.

Sri Lanka welcomed 241,663 tourists in December 2019, and 228,000 in January and 207,000 in February 2020 when airports were shut to fight the Coronavirus pandemic.

Sri Lanka’s Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa told reporters this week that they are targeting 2.5 million tourists in 2022.

Sri Lanka welcomed 507,311 in 2020, who came before airports closed in March due to Coronavirus.

In the first four days of January 2022 11,380 tourists had arrived in the island with 2,032 Russian visitors, Sri Lanka’s Daily Mirror newspaper quoted Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga as saying.

Sri Lanka Tourism data showed from December 1-26 a total of 69,941 tourists arrived in the country, an indication that for the last five days of December 19,565 holidaymakers arrived in the country.

The largest source markets recorded for the month of December were India, Russia, the United Kingdom, followed by Germany and Ukraine.

Although most tourists came from the European market there are concerns of a setback from the market after the resurgence of COVID-19 infections in those countries as they bring in travel restrictions.

“Even though signs of recovery were evident, the uncertainty for the travel industry is mounting again with countries already practising restrictions and border closures with the emergence of the new Omicron variant,” Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority report said.

“It is anticipated that, increasing cases in Europe will further dampen consumer confidence which was gradually building after the devastating Delta variant.”

A total of 56,268 Indians had visited the country in 2021 out of 194,495 tourists in 2021.

Russia generated 16,894 visitors in 2021, The UK 16,646 visitors, Germany 12,442 and Ukraine 7,037.

Chinese travellers, the second largest source market for tourists in pre-COVID times remained the lowest with only 2,417 visiting the island for the whole year in 2021.

Although the concerns of the European market looms and as China remains closed for outbound travel, Sri Lanka is confident it will generate 200,000 or 100,000 tourists per month in 2022.

While the SLTDA chief Kimarli Fernando told a forum in December that they are expecting 100,000 tourist arrivals per month in 2022 and are hopeful of Indian travellers.

The island welcomed its highest number of tourists ever in 2018 with 2.3 million arrivals and it dipped to 1.9 million following the Easter Sunday bombings in 2019.

However McKinsey & Company, a business consultancy said the Sri Lanka market may take time to recover as China remains closed and the rise of COVID-19 infections in the European markets.

The consultancy predicted that Sri Lanka will return to 2019 levels by 2024 but to reach the 2018 levels may take five years. (Colombo/Jan07/2021)

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1 Sri Lanka rupee expected to reach 280 to US dollar by June: President

2 india indigo to fly to sri lanka's jaffna, 3 sri lanka's adani wind power price lowered to 8.85 cents: minister, 4 indian adani group says “vicious campaign” against its sri lanka wind project, 5 imf ready to listen alternative views, but sri lanka is on “knife edged path”: mission head, high emigration rate of sri lanka medical professionals: president.

Saturday March 23, 2024 4:45 pm

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka’s President Ranil Wickremesinghe has said the significant emigration rate among trained medical professionals of the country was concerning.

“Approximately 30 to 40 out of every 100 doctors or nurses trained in the country opt to leave, a circumstance unfavourable for the nation,” Wickremesinghe was quoted as saying by his media division at a ceremony to open the improved Accident and Emergency Unit at the Point Pedro Base hospital.

A collective effort was needed to enhance healthcare services, he said, adding that he had instructed the Sir John Kotalawala Defence University to augment its recruitment efforts to fulfil the requirements in medical and nursing fields.

The Cabinet this week approved establishing a Faculty of Medicine at the National School of Business Management (NSBM) Green University, which doctors unions have opposed. Lyceum Campus has expressed interest in this endeavour, the president said.

It was important to integrate modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), into the healthcare sector of the country, he said.

The Point Pedro Base Hospital Development Project was initiated with a 4 billion rupee Dutch Government relief loan, as part of the Government of the Netherlands’ Development Related Infrastructure Investment Vehicle (DRIVE).

“Fostering equal rights for all Sri Lankans is integral to the reconciliation process, beginning with fundamental rights like access to healthcare and safety,” Bonnie Horbach, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Sri Lanka, said at the event.

Point Pedro Base Hospital’s infrastructure including Accident and Emergency unit (A&E), Preliminary Care Unit (PCU), Radiology Development (X-Ray, Ultrasound Scanner and CT Scanner), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Operation Theatres, Neonatal ICU, Premature Baby Care Unit (PBCU), Surgical Ward, Maternity Ward, Central Sterile Supply Division (CSSD)Dialysis Unit and Laboratory were improved. (Colombo/Mar23/2024)

Sri Lanka exports marginally up in Feb 2024

Saturday March 23, 2024 11:26 am

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports rose 0.17 percent from a year ago to 983.7 million US dollars, with the month with apparel exports down 2.0 percent, with a pick up in exports to the US and UK, official data showed.

Agricultural exports from Sri Lanka picked up 11.82 percent to 255.76 million US dollars, but industrial exports fell 3.36 percent to 727.94 million dollars, Sri Lanka’s Export Development Board said.

Tea exports were up 22 percent to 127.7 million US dollars, rubber-based products were up 15.8 percent to 88.73 million US dollars and coconut-based products were up 25 percent to 68.23 million Us dollars.

Electronic components were down 18 percent to 35.16 million US dollars.

Unclassified ‘other’ exports were down 25 percent to 95.39 million US dollars.

Exports to the US, the top buyer of Sri Lanka goods, picked up 8 percent to 249.6 million US dollars.

Exports to UK went up 20 percent to 82.9 million US dollars, Germany was up 4.3 percent to 52.6 million US dollars and UAE was up 7.25 percent to 29.6 million US dollars.

Exports to India were down 20 percent to 55.7 million US dollars, and exports to canaday was down 39 percent to 21.2 million US dollars. (Colombo/Mar23/2024)

Sri Lanka releases land held by military in North

Saturday March 23, 2024 10:00 am

ECONOMYNEXT – Lands held by the Jaffna Security Force Headquarters in Jaffna were released to people at a ceremony attended by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, this week.

“Following the end of conflict, a significant portion of land was requisitioned by the military. To date, the government has released approximately 63,000 acres of both government-owned and privately-owned land,” Wickremesinghe said in Ottagapulam, Jaffna.

Jaffna Commander Major General Chandana Wickramasinghe presented the official land release documents to Wickremesinghe who handed over the documents to Jaffna District Governor Maradalingam Pradeepan.

As per the arrangement, 234 acres of land from five Grama Niladhari Divisions in the Valikamam North were returned to the local public.

“Land ownership is a universal aspiration transcending nationality. It is a fundamental right that everyone should possess,” Wickremesinghe was quoted as saying by his media division.

“Around 2,600 acres of land previously held by the navy have been returned to the use of civilians. Similarly, 2,600 acres of land, encompassing both government and private holdings, formerly under the control of the Air Force, have been returned. Recent developments have seen the return of 101 acres of land to local communities, with an additional 234 acres being granted today.” (Colombo/Mar23/2024)

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s speech at the event:

“In the era of monarchy, land ownership was vested with the people. However, the enactment of the Waste Lands Act during the British colonial period led to the government assuming ownership of the lands. Consequently, the government came to possess 80% of the country’s land.

While the government transferred land rights to individuals through permits, legal ownership was not conferred. It is my conviction that land seized from the people should be restored to them. Hence, we have resolved to grant free land rights to all holders of land permits.

Land ownership is a universal aspiration transcending nationality. It is a fundamental right that everyone should possess. To this end, we launched the Urumaya program in Dambulla recently, and today, we are extending this initiative to the Jaffna district. While only a select few are benefiting from this program today, I have instructed for its completion by June.

In addition, we have initiated the agriculture modernization program, selecting one Divisional Secretariat in each district for this purpose. In Jaffna, Kopai has been chosen. This initiative aims to modernize agriculture in the province, leading to increased income opportunities for its residents.

Following the end of conflict, a significant portion of land was requisitioned by the military. To date, the government has released approximately 63,000 acres of both government-owned and privately-owned land.

Furthermore, around 2,600 acres of land previously held by the navy have been returned to the use of civilians. Similarly, 2,600 acres of land, encompassing both government and private holdings, formerly under the control of the Air Force, have been returned.

Moreover, recent developments have seen the return of 101 acres of land to local communities, with an additional 234 acres being granted today.

Additionally, there have been instances where lands previously categorized as forest conservation areas by the Forest Conservation Department encroached upon village territories. I have instructed that these matters be resolved in accordance with the 1985 land map.

Previously, the landowners of this region, in collaboration with the security forces, initiated the Palali Smart Agriculture program. We have advised that these lands be reintegrated into modern agriculture practices, recognizing that landowners may require support in this endeavour. Consequently, the Tri forces are collaborating to provide the necessary assistance. Additionally, contributions from reputable companies are being facilitated for sales while, the initiative receives support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Furthermore, specific conditions were stipulated for the allocation of these lands. It is imperative that the best farm in Jaffna be established here, serving as a model farm for the entire nation.

Moreover, a new program similar to initiatives in other parts of the north is being launched in Jaffna. We are addressing post-war challenges and have initiated the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). However, our efforts are not confined to this. We are committed to providing comprehensive solutions to the issues affecting the people and enhancing their sources of income. Consequently, we are spearheading the establishment of a new economy in this province.

We have devised plans to bolster agriculture from Vavuniya to Jaffna and harness the extensive solar and wind energy resources in the province. We aim to collaborate with India in this endeavour. Furthermore, we seek to stimulate growth in the tourism and fishing industries. Additionally, land has been designated for investment zones. Over the next 5 to 10 years, we are committed to implementing these initiatives to foster a robust economy in the northern region. I extend an invitation to everyone to collectively contribute to the transformation of Northern Sri Lanka into a significant economic hub”.

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Sri Lanka draws nearly 200,000 tourists in 2021

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•   Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga signals faster recovery; forecasts 100-125,000 tourists in January 

Travel & Tourism - Sri Lanka

• In Sri Lanka, the Travel & Tourism market is projected to earn a revenue of US$348.10m in 2024.
• The market is expected to exhibit an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 5.16%, thereby raising the expected market volume to US$425.70m by 2028.
• Among the markets, Hotels are anticipated to be the largest with a projected market volume of US$175.00m in 2024.
• By 2028, the number of users in Hotels is expected to reach 1,822.00k users.
• In 2024, the user penetration is expected to be 10.7%, which is likely to increase to 11.9% by 2028.
• The average revenue per user (ARPU) is estimated to be US$148.40.
• By 2028, online sales are anticipated to account for 67% of total revenue generated in the Travel & Tourism market.
• When compared globally, United States is expected to generate the highest revenue at US$199bn in 2024.
• Sri Lanka's Travel & Tourism market is experiencing a rise in eco-tourism, with a focus on sustainable practices and conservation efforts.

Key regions: Malaysia , Europe , Singapore , Vietnam , United States

Definition:

The Travel & Tourism market encompasses a diverse range of accommodation services catering to the needs and preferences of travelers. This dynamic market includes package holidays, hotel accommodations, private vacation rentals, camping experiences, and cruises.

The market consists of five further markets.

• The Cruises market covers multi-day vacation trips on a cruise ship. The Cruises market encompasses exclusively passenger ticket revenues.
• The Vacation Rentals market comprises of private accommodation bookings which includes private holiday homes and houses as well as short-term rental of private rooms or flats.
• The Hotels market includes stays in hotels and professionally run guest houses.
• The Package Holidays market comprises of travel deals that normally contain travel and accommodation sold for one price, although optional further provisions can be included such as catering and tourist services.
• The Camping market includes bookings at camping sites for pitches using tents, campervans, or trailers. These can be associated with big chains or privately managed campsites.

Additional Information:

The main performance indicators of the Travel & Tourism market are revenues, average revenue per user (ARPU), users and user penetration rates. Additionally, online and offline sales channel shares display the distribution of online and offline bookings. The ARPU refers to the average revenue one user generates per year while the revenue represents the total booking volume. Revenues are generated through both online and offline sales channels and include exclusively B2C revenues and users for the above-mentioned markets. Users represent the aggregated number of guests. Each user is only counted once per year. Additional definitions for each market can be found within the respective market pages.

The booking volume includes all booked travels made by users from the selected region, independent of the departure and arrival. The scope includes domestic and outbound travel.

Prominent players in this sector include online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia and Opodo, as well as tour operators such as TUI. Specialized platforms like Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Airbnb facilitate the online booking of hotels and private accommodations, contributing significantly to the market's vibrancy.

For further information on the data displayed, refer to the info button right next to each box.

• Bookings directly via the website of the service provider, travel agencies, online travel agencies (OTAs) or telephone

out-of-scope

• Business trips
• Other forms of trips (e.g. excursions, etc.)

Travel & Tourism

• Vacation Rentals
• Package Holidays
• Analyst Opinion

The Travel & Tourism market in Sri Lanka is experiencing a significant growth trajectory, attracting a diverse range of travelers from around the globe. Customer preferences: Travelers visiting Sri Lanka are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences, adventure tourism, and eco-friendly accommodations. The demand for personalized travel itineraries and off-the-beaten-path destinations is on the rise, catering to a more experiential and conscious consumer base. Trends in the market: One of the notable trends in the Sri Lankan travel market is the surge in wellness tourism, with an emphasis on yoga retreats, Ayurvedic treatments, and spa resorts. Additionally, the country is witnessing a rise in luxury travel, with high-end boutique hotels and luxury villas gaining popularity among affluent travelers. The growing trend of sustainable tourism practices and community-based tourism initiatives is also shaping the industry landscape in Sri Lanka. Local special circumstances: Sri Lanka's unique geographical features, including pristine beaches, lush tea plantations, ancient cultural sites, and diverse wildlife, offer a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers. The country's warm hospitality, rich heritage, and flavorful cuisine further contribute to its appeal as a top tourist destination in South Asia. The recent infrastructure developments and improved connectivity have also made it easier for tourists to explore the island nation. Underlying macroeconomic factors: The steady economic growth, political stability, and government initiatives to promote tourism have played a crucial role in driving the growth of the travel industry in Sri Lanka. The country's strategic location along major international sea routes and its increasing popularity as a cruise ship destination have further boosted tourist arrivals. Moreover, the investments in tourism infrastructure, such as new hotels, resorts, and transportation facilities, are enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors to Sri Lanka.

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Data coverage:

Modeling approach:

Additional notes:

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• Global Comparison
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Sri Lanka Tourism Revenue

• Sri Lanka's Tourism Revenue reached 1 USD bn in Dec 2022, compared with 507 USD mn in the previous year
• Sri Lanka's Tourism Revenue data is updated yearly, available from Dec 1966 to Dec 2022
• The data reached an all-time high of 4,381 USD mn in Dec 2018 and a record low of 1 USD mn in Dec 1967

View Sri Lanka's Tourism Revenue from 1966 to 2022 in the chart:

What was Sri Lanka's Tourism Revenue in 2022?

Sri Lanka's Tourism Revenue reached 1 USD bn in Dec 2022, compared with 507 USD mn in the previous year See the table below for more data.

Tourism Revenue by Country Comparison

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International tourism, receipts (current US$) - Sri Lanka

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MONTHLY TOURIST ARRIVALS REPORTS 2022

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Sri Lanka Tourism Strategic Plane 2017 - 2020

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Monthly Tourist Arrivals Reports 2022

Monthly Tourist Arrivals Reports for the months from January to December which consists of information on tourist arrivals and hotel occupancy was published.

Arrivals Report January 2022

Arrivals Report February 2022

Arrivals report march 2022, arrivals report april 2022, arrivals report may 2022, arrivals report june 2022, arrivals report july 2022, arrivals report august 2022, arrivals report september 2022, arrivals report october 2022, arrivals report november 2022, arrivals report december 2022.

High Commission of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom

SL Tourism Statistics

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• Leaders Speak
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• Sri Lanka Tourism achieves record growth with surge in Indian visitors, sets ambitious goal of 2.5 million tourists in 2024

Highlighting the surge in Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka, the events celebrated the doubling of Indian visitors from 13,759 in January of the previous year to 34,399 in January 2024. This exponential growth was attributed to enhanced connectivity between the two countries, with 95 flights connecting Sri Lanka to nine Indian cities, ensuring seamless travel experiences and smooth transactions facilitated by India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI).

• Manas Dwivedi ,
• ETTravelWorld
• Updated On Feb 22, 2024 at 12:47 AM IST

Sri Lanka rolls out projects to attract high-end tourists

Sri Lanka has rolled out infrastructure development projects and innovative tourism promotion programmes in a bid to attract high-end tourists, the President's Media Division (PMD) said. During the tour, the President Ranil Wickremesinghe visited several tourist hotels, talking with owners to understand their challenges first hand, the PMD added.

• By Manas Dwivedi ,
• Published On Feb 21, 2024 at 07:47 PM IST

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