Sri Lanka's Tourism Boom: A Summer Surge and Economic Strategy
Sri Lanka welcomed 200,244 tourists in July 2025, marking a 6.6% increase from last year. Indian tourists dominated, with the country extending free tourist visas to boost arrivals. Despite a potential USD 66 million revenue loss, the anticipated economic benefits are expected to surpass initial costs.
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- Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka experienced a significant rise in tourist arrivals in July 2025, as recorded by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. A total of 200,244 visitors marked a 6.6% increase compared to the same month last year, driven by a strong influx from India.
Indian tourists constituted the largest segment, with 37,128 arrivals. The United Kingdom, Netherlands, China, and France followed as significant contributors. The cumulative tourist count for the year reached 1,368,288, underscoring strong growth in the sector.
As part of its tourism boost, Sri Lanka extended free tourist visas to 40 more countries. Although this might lead to a USD 66 million drop in revenue, the government anticipates larger economic benefits from increased tourist activities, according to Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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