Sri Lanka Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath announced that the country is on course to hit $5 billion in tourism revenue this year. The statement, announced at the Sri Lanka Travel Fair 2025 closing ceremony, came amidst a backdrop of renewed optimism and surging visitor arrivals.
Tourism revenue in the first quarter of 2025 reached $1.2 billion, according to the report. Forecasts suggest that the country is well-positioned to reach $2.5 billion in revenue by mid-year. Minister Herath expressed confidence that the country is poised to achieve its $5 billion annual target based on current growth trajectories.
“Sri Lanka has achieved political stability and is now gradually improving its economy. That is the best message that can be conveyed to the international community,” Herath said. “The number of tourists arriving in Sri Lanka is increasing rapidly now. With that, the country’s revenue will also increase.”
One millionth tourist this year
Sri Lanka is set to welcome its one millionth tourist for the year. This marks a significant feat for the country as the milestone will be achieved almost a full month ahead of last year’s timeline. Last year, the target was hit at the end of June.
According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), 91,785 visitors arrived in the first 21 days of May, bringing the year-to-date total to 988,669 arrivals. The data signals a significant turnaround and upward trajectory. “As the tourism industry develops, all those who are involved in the sector will be able to strengthen their economies. Additionally, it will develop the country and the state of living of all people in the country,” Herath said.
Casino push to draw tourists
Tourism remains a vital pillar of Sri Lanka’s economy, especially as the country works to recover from recent economic instability and attract more foreign exchange. The government is also placing increased emphasis on improving visitor safety, infrastructure, and international perception.
An emerging factor in Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery is the growth of its 바카라 and gaming sector, which is fast becoming a key draw for regional tourists. Indian nationals now account for around 18 percent of all tourist arrivals, a key demographic targeted by new integrated resort developments.
Melco’s City of Dreams to contribute
The tourism sector is to receive additional momentum with projects like Melco International Development Ltd’s City of Dreams Sri Lanka 바카라, which is projected to open in the third quarter of 2025. The announcement was made by Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho Yau Lung in the . The Colombo-based integrated resort is part of a US$1 billion project developed by John Keells Holdings and represents a major regional expansion for Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd.
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector marked significant milestones in 2025, including welcoming over 900,000 international visitors between 1 January 2025 and 1 May 2025. The strong start has also contributed to boosting optimism about reaching its ambitious year-end goals of three million tourists and generating $5 billion in revenue.
