The government is looking at new laws and regulations for businesses run by foreign nationals outside the required legal procedures, as it plans to expand the tourism sector.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake raised the issue during a meeting with tourism industry representatives at the Presidential Secretariat on October 28.
The meeting focused on the steps needed to reach US$10 billion in tourism revenue and five million tourist arrivals by 2030.
50 International Airlines Targeted
More international flights are also part of the plan.
Ten new international airlines have started flying to the country this year. The government now wants to increase that number to 50.
Officials and tourism industry representatives discussed ways to reach this target.
They also looked at improving domestic air travel to Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Sigiriya and Jaffna.
Better air links to these destinations could help visitors travel beyond the main tourist centres.
New Rules for Tourism Businesses
The meeting also focused on bringing tourism businesses under the proper legal framework.
The government wants all tourist hotels and accommodation providers to register with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
This move aims to bring more tourism businesses into the formal system.
Officials also discussed the need for laws and regulations for businesses run by foreign nationals when they operate outside the required legal procedures.
The source does not give details about the new rules, fines or licensing requirements. It only confirms that the government raised the need for such laws and regulations.
Tourism Growth and Environmental Protection
National parks were another focus of the meeting.
Officials discussed ways to use these parks to support tourism while protecting forest resources through suitable laws and regulations.
The meeting also reviewed global campaigns that promote tourism.
President Dissanayake stressed the need to expand tourism, improve air links and bring tourism businesses under the proper legal framework. At the same time, he highlighted the need to protect natural resources as the country works towards its 2030 tourism targets.
Panel Discussion Presidential Affairs
Last modified: October 28, 2026
