Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has demonstrated a robust resurgence, with earnings exceeding USD 1.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025. According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the country garnered USD 1,122.3 million from tourism between January and March, marking a 9.4% increase compared to the USD 1,025.9 million earned during the same period in 2024 .
In March alone, tourism revenue reached USD 354 million, contributing significantly to the quarterly total . This growth is attributed to a 13.6% rise in tourist arrivals, with over 722,000 international visitors recorded in the first three months of the year
Despite the increase in total earnings and arrivals, the average earnings per tourist saw a slight decline, from approximately USD 1,613.59 in Q1 2024 to USD 1,553.83 in Q1 2025 .
The surge in tourism has positively impacted Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange reserves and is expected to bolster employment in the hospitality and service sectors. The government is also investing in infrastructure upgrades at key airports to enhance connectivity and streamline arrivals .
Looking ahead, Sri Lanka aims to sustain this momentum through targeted promotional campaigns in the Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern markets, as well as by reinforcing ties with traditional European source markets. These initiatives are anticipated to further stimulate the tourism sector and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
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