Tourism authorities to set up mobile unit to register service providers

• SLTDA already has online service to register tourist service providers
• Official says mobile unit will also provide advisory services to improve service quality

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority this week announced that it will be establishing a mobile unit for registration and advisory services for establishments providing services to tourists.

“We will be setting up a mobile unit for registration of service providers,” SLTDA Director General Upali Ratnayake told a press conference this week, where he received the official appointment for his post, replacing Malraj Kiriella.

The SLTDA had implemented an online platform last year for tourism service providers to get registered much easier compared to the previous process of visiting the SLTDA office in Colombo, and Ratnayake was questioned on why the mobile unit was set up when an online service was available.

“Not everyone is prepared to register online or has the necessary technology. People find it very easy when we go there,” he said.
The explanation that the unregistered businesses either are not able to or have the necessary technology to register online is questionable, since most such units derive businesses through online platforms.

However, Ratnayake added that the mobile unit will provide advice on how to improve service quality, and what benefits are conferred when registering a business.

“But it’s not only a registration service but also an awareness programme. When there is fulfilment for them to get registered, they will be much more willing to do it,” he said.

While the mobile unit will focus on registering businesses, those who continue to avoid registration after being made aware would be referred to the Enforcement Unit, which was set up last year, for action, Ratnayake said.

Following intense lobbying by luxury hotel chains, the government has been attempting to grapple with how to more effectively monitor the informal sector, which now accounts for half of the accommodation provided to tourists.

Following recent attacks on tourists at unregistered establishments, the government is requesting tourists to patronize registered restaurants and accommodation units.(CW)