Plans underway to set up inter-ministerial tourism committee

The Cabinet this week gave the nod to establish an inter-ministerial tourism committee chaired by the Secretary to the President and with representatives from relevant government agencies.   Due to the multifaceted nature of the tourism industry and its various assets, laws and responsibilities are divided among several government agencies, and the committee will be established to help maintain efficient coordination and cooperation among the relevant agencies to achieve the desired benefits. 

The government said it recognises that the current revival of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry will play an important role in the country’s economic recovery and growth. 
Accordingly, many measures have been proposed in the 2024 budget, including the implementation of a long-term programme to promote the tourism sector and bring at least five million tourists annually.