Boatshow to raise awareness, promote tourism

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by Lalin Fernandopulle

The first boatshow organised by the Boat Building Technology Improvement Institution Lanka Ltd. (BTI) will be held this year to raise awareness on the potential of the boat building industry and promote tourism.

Consultant for the Boatshow in Sri Lanka, Nalin Attigala said the market potential for fishing, leisure and ancillary industries are not adequately explored in the country.

"The boatshow will help to build awareness of a commercially viable industry, introduce new technology, set up joint ventures and develop the fishing industry", he said.

The boat building industry which has an estimated Rs. 12 billion annual turnover and a large number of employment opportunities that could be offered to those skilled should be exploited.

The focus in Sri Lanka has been only on the fishing industry but not on boat building for leisure and tourism promotion.

There will be opportunities to develop ancillary products and services through the boat building industry.

The BTI with over 20 members who manufacture and export boats has not been recognised in the country. The country is not making use of its strategic benefits to attract tourists who prefer deep sea sailing. He said if there is no national policy to develop the industry other countries in the region will benefit. India, Bangladesh, Maldives and Malaysia are developing yachts and marines to promote tourism.

Sri Lanka will be enrolled in the world Boatshow calendar after the launch of the event this year.The BTI will set up 75 stalls at this year's show which will be held at the BMICH from June 8-10.