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Govt Unveils New Tourism Measures to Boost Visitor Experience Ahead of Peak Season

In Local News
October 15, 2025

The government has introduced a series of new initiatives to enhance facilities and streamline services for tourists ahead of the upcoming travel season.

The Special Task Force, appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to fast-track tourism promotion efforts, convened for the second time yesterday (14) at the Presidential Secretariat.

Key discussions centered on improving visa issuance efficiency, expediting the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) process, and increasing the number of airport counters to reduce congestion for arriving tourists.

The Task Force also explored expanding online ticket purchasing options for major tourist attractions and addressing common challenges faced by visitors and industry stakeholders.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism Vijitha Herath, Deputy Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe, Presidential Secretary Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, and Ministry Secretary Aruni Ranaraja attended the meeting alongside leading industry figures, including John Keells Holdings Chairperson and CEO Krishan Balendra and EKHO Hotels Vice President Nihal Muhandiram.