Colombo – October 2025
Sri Lanka is increasingly merging tourism promotion with trade initiatives to present a unified image of the country as a business-friendly and tourist-rich destination.
Key Strategies:
- Tourism-Export Synergy: Linking travel experiences to local products (e.g., tea plantations, handicraft villages).
- Cultural & Heritage Marketing: Showcasing Sri Lanka’s historical sites, festivals, and wellness retreats in conjunction with trade expos.
- Investor Attraction: Demonstrating how tourism boosts foreign exchange, enhances the workforce, and strengthens export appeal.
Case Study – Expo 2025 Osaka:
During the Business Forum, tourism was actively promoted alongside tea, apparel, gems, and IT services, signaling that foreign investors can benefit from both trade opportunities and tourism-linked ventures.
Economic Significance:
Tourism contributes over 5% of GDP and is a key driver of FDI inflows, employment, and SME growth. By promoting it alongside exports, Sri Lanka positions itself as a multi-dimensional investment destination.
Analyst Insight:
“Combining tourism with exports is innovative; it gives investors a holistic understanding of Sri Lanka’s economic potential while enhancing cultural appreciation,” said a Colombo-based market analyst.
