Sri Lanka Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in Sri Lanka, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals.
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Travel and Tourism
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Overview

Tourist arrivals in 2024 totaled two million, generating $3.2 billion in earnings, up from $2.1 billion in 2023. Average daily spending rose to $184 in 2024 from $160 the previous year. The World Travel Market (WTM) Global Report projects that Sri Lanka will record the highest growth rate in global tourist spending, with a 40% increase expected in 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing markets in Asia.

Approximately 60% of hotel rooms in Sri Lanka are in the four- and five-star category. Industry performance has benefited from improvements in infrastructure, entertainment and gaming options, policy reforms, better connectivity, and a weaker Sri Lankan currency (the rupee). Investments in the tourism sector are increasing, with several new hotels launched in 2024, including international brands such as Sheraton and ITC Hotels. The City of Dreams, a high-end integrated resort in Colombo, opened in August 2025. While a few local conglomerates control most resort chains in Sri Lanka, other operators also manage high-end properties. One local conglomerate signaled plans to open JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton branded hotels in 2025. 

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is preparing to offer approximately 3,000 acres of SLTDA-owned land across the country, as well as streamline investment procedures and promote sustainable growth in the sector. Opportunities for use of the land include star-class hotels, eco-resorts, wellness retreats, boutique properties, and adventure lodges.
In 2024, the main international airport served more than 30 airlines, including major carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Turkish Airlines, in addition to the national carrier, Sri Lankan Airlines, with several increasing the frequency of their flights in 2024. No U.S. airlines currently fly to Sri Lanka. 

Leading Sub-Sectors 

  • Food & beverage 
  • Hotel equipment 
  • Hotel franchises  

Opportunities 

The tourism sector offers long-term opportunities for U.S. suppliers across infrastructure, technology, and consulting services. Demand exists for hotel equipment, furniture, water purification systems, electrical systems, energy-efficient equipment, restaurant and kitchen equipment, food and beverage, bathroom accessories, spa and fitness equipment, and water sports equipment. 

Expansion of the hotel sector, including opportunities for U.S. brands to license, manage, and operate properties in the market, upgrades to existing properties, and construction of international hotel chains requiring high-end inputs and technology create strong prospects for U.S. companies.

Resources 

The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka         
Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority 

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