In a significant and strategic move aimed at revitalizing its tourism industry, the Sri Lankan Cabinet has given the green light to a pilot project that will grant visa-free access to tourists from seven nations. This innovative initiative, set to be implemented until March 31, is expected to enhance the country's appeal as a tourism destination.
Tourists from India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand are the primary beneficiaries of this new policy, which is poised to make traveling to Sri Lanka more accessible and convenient for visitors from these countries.
The decision comes as part of Sri Lanka's broader efforts to reinvigorate its tourism sector, which has been significantly impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative seeks to remove bureaucratic barriers and simplify the visa process, creating a more attractive and welcoming environment for travelers.
The move aligns with the government's commitment to foster economic recovery through tourism, which has been a cornerstone of the nation's economy. By providing visa-free entry for tourists from the selected nations, Sri Lanka aims to encourage a resurgence in international tourism and boost the country's revenue and employment opportunities.