Sri Lanka is aiming to attract four million tourists annually and generate US$8 billion in tourism revenue by 2030, according to Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.
The target was announced during Sri Lanka’s World Tourism Day 2026 programme, as the country seeks to expand tourism while distributing more of its economic benefits to communities and small businesses.
Growth from recent years
The Prime Minister said approximately 2.05 million visitors travelled to Sri Lanka in 2024, generating US$3.17 billion. Arrivals increased to 2,362,521 in 2025, while reported tourism earnings reached US$3.22 billion.
Separate figures attributed to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority showed more than 107,000 international arrivals during the first three weeks of September 2026, taking the year-to-date total to about 1.64 million. India remained the largest source market, followed in September by the United Kingdom and Australia.
Sustainability and digital innovation
The 2030 strategy is expected to focus on eco-friendly development, protection of cultural heritage and stronger opportunities for village-based and small-scale tourism operators.
The announcement was made during a conference themed around digital innovation, artificial intelligence and culturally integrated tourism. The government said universities, heritage organisations, public agencies and private operators would need to turn research and technology into practical improvements across the visitor economy.
What it could mean for travellers
Higher visitor numbers could support new accommodation, transport and tourism services. However, sustainable growth will depend on protecting natural areas and cultural sites while improving infrastructure and maintaining reliable visitor information.
Travellers should continue checking current entry requirements, weather conditions, transport arrangements and official tourism advice before booking. Accommodation prices, availability and local conditions can change.
Sources
- Newswire — Sri Lanka targets four million tourists and US$8 billion by 2030
- Newswire — September tourist arrivals exceed 100,000
- Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority — Tourism News
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