Sri Lanka aims to achieve $5 billion in tourism revenue in 2025, driven by growing political stability and a surge in visitor arrivals, Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath announced at the Sri Lanka Travel Fair 2025 closing ceremony.
So far, the country has earned $1.2 billion in tourism revenue during the first quarter of 2025 and expects to reach $2.5 billion by mid-year. Therefore, Minister Herath remains confident that the current growth trends will help meet the ambitious $5 billion annual target.
“Sri Lanka has achieved political stability and is gradually improving its economy. This sends the best message to the international community,” said Herath. “Tourist arrivals are rising rapidly, which will, in turn, increase the country’s revenue.”
Moreover, Sri Lanka Tourism plans to welcome its one millionth visitor this week—nearly a month earlier than last year when the milestone occurred at the end of June 2024.
According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, 91,785 visitors arrived in the first 21 days of May, bringing total arrivals for the year to 988,669—just 4,370 visitors short of the one million target.
Minister Herath also highlighted that tourism growth will strengthen the broader economy, benefiting those working directly in the sector as well as other industries. “As the tourism industry develops, it will boost the economy and improve living standards across the country,” he explained.
In addition, Melco plans to open its City of Dreams Sri Lanka casino in the capital city during the third quarter of 2025, offering another major attraction for tourists and adding further momentum to the sector.
