This virtual event brought together a distinguished panel of experts and industry leaders to share their insights on current developments, future prospects, and strategic avenues for international—particularly German—companies seeking to enter and thrive in this promising market.
The webinar featured key contributions from prominent figures in the Sri Lankan tourism industry. Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of both the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), provided strategic insights into the long-term development plans for tourism in Sri Lanka. He emphasized investment opportunities and outlined the economic potential awaiting foreign companies, reinforcing the government’s commitment to positioning tourism as a cornerstone of national growth.
Adding a hospitality industry perspective, Mr. Karim Schadlou, General Manager of Hilton Colombo Residences, shared firsthand experience on market trends and evolving demands within the sector. His commentary highlighted Sri Lanka’s potential as a premium destination and provided practical insights into the country’s service and accommodation standards. Meanwhile, Mr. Nalin Jayasundera, President of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), gave a compelling overview of the inbound tourism market. He pointed to promising areas for collaboration and growth, particularly for German companies seeking to engage in Sri Lanka’s tourism ecosystem.
Among the many takeaways shared during the session, three key highlights stood out:
- 150% growth in international tourist arrivals since 2022
- Tourism is one of the top five investment sectors for the Sri Lankan government
- USD 2.5 billion in tourism revenue in 2023 – major potential for German companies
These figures underscore the significant potential and ongoing momentum in the Sri Lankan tourism industry.
Beyond industry-specific insights, the webinar also addressed the broader economic and political climate in Sri Lanka, equipping participants with critical information to shape informed market entry strategies. Attendees gained a clear understanding of the wide range of support services AHK Sri Lanka offers to facilitate successful business development—from tailored market research and regulatory guidance to networking support and long-term partnership building.
AHK Sri Lanka extends their sincere gratitude to the esteemed speakers and all participants for making the event a success. The webinar served not only as a platform for knowledge exchange but also as a launchpad for new partnerships and collaboration opportunities.