Impact of Tourism Industry

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The Tourism Industry has a strong impact on the economy of Sri Lanka.  It's a significant driver of Sri Lanka's economy and it is the primary source of foreign currency earnings. According to the Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA, 2019), tourism earnings have become the third greatest foreign exchange earner, bringing in $4.4 billion in 2018 and $3.7 billion the following year.

Due to the geographical location, environmental factors, climate pattern, cultural attributes and Sri Lankan indigenous values, Sri Lanka has become very popular especially among international travellers/tourists.  Sri Lanka is referred in the world as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean."  There is nothing wrong with calling this small Island surrounded by the Indian Ocean such because of the natural beauty. Compared to other countries in the region, Sri Lanka tops the traveller’s bucket lists. Sri Lanka was chosen Lonely Planet's top destination to visit in 2019 for the second year in a row. Sri Lanka ranked 77th out of 141 countries in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019 of the World Economic Forum.

The largest number of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka from India and the People’s Republic of China, followed by the UK, Germany, and France to see the  attractions of Sri Lanka beaches, wildlife parks, rainforests, tea plantations, ancient ruins, Buddhist cultural sites, and festivals. Eastern Sri Lanka is an area that offers significant potential due to the quality of beaches. Locations such as Pasikuda and Arugam Bay are premier destinations, especially for surfing enthusiasts.  The country has several parks and forests that are home to a multitude of wildlife and unique flora species and is considered a biodiversity hotspot by several international environmental groups. “SO SRI LANKA”, the theme that was used to provide travellers a lasting taste of the authentic Sri Lankan life, from authentic local food, nature, rich cultural values and lifestyle.

Yes, tourism offers both investment and trade opportunities.  A significant portion of the population of Sri Lanka is engaged in tourism related occupations as their livelihood.   The participation of foreign investors can also be seen in the tourism industry.  This industry has created a large number of jobs. 173,592 individuals work directly in tourism, while 229,015 others are involved in some way.

Ireland based Female Travel Blogger, Janet Newnham started blogging about Sri Lanka, and commented that “I never expected to find some of the most beautiful hotels in the world in this small, but perfectly formed South Asian nation”.

 

Comments

  1. Madushana JayakodyNovember 12, 2021 at 10:44 PM

    Beautifully written article about our Island! so much insight into travel industry.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Upekha WickramasingheNovember 13, 2021 at 2:46 AM

    This is an awesome post which provides more information regarding tourism in Sri Lanka. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Nilma SenadeeraNovember 14, 2021 at 3:47 AM

    Sri Lanka is a great place to visit. Your text is wonderful

    ReplyDelete
  4. DilNovember 14, 2021 at 5:16 AM

    Really enjoyed your article and you had nice Aspects.

    ReplyDelete

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