SL records 43% growth in tourism

by Shirajiv SIRIMANE

Sri Lanka claimed the highest growth rate in tourism in the region recording 43% of growth when the Asian region as a whole recorded a tourism growth rate of 13% up to May 2011.

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Lakshman Yapa Abewardana speaking at the Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2010 said that since the defeat of terrorism in 2009, the tourism industry in Sri Lanka has gathered momentum and grown steadily.

The industry has flourished, so has the enthusiasm of key stake holders to invest more and contribute more and to be a part of this drive forward.

"This year's awards will move beyond the traditional sectors to recognize specialized products and services valued by the visitors" said Hon. Lakshman Yapa Abewardana in his address to the gathering. "Sri Lanka Tourism Award is therefore is held to identify, recognize and reward excellence in the travel and tourism industry and promote the delivery of service standards and encourage true Sri Lankan travel trade" "We have established a regular dialogue with all stakeholders.

This will continue in the coming year. In that journey wish to recognize the performance of stakeholders every year"

Sri Lanka Tourism Awards - 2010 saw the enthusiastic participation of key stakeholders of tourism industry in Sri Lanka among whom, many were award nominees. This year's Tourism Awards saw an enhancement of the categories to make sure that as many contributors as possible would be recognized for their commitment.