World Bank-Backed Initiatives Aim to Transform Sri Lanka's Tourism Sector
Sri Lanka has launched two World Bank-backed advisory projects to redefine its tourism strategy and international promotional roadmap. These initiatives, supported by a total grant allocation of $1 million from the World Bank's Grant Facility for Project Preparation, aim to shift the focus from merely increasing visitor numbers to enhancing the value generated by tourism. The National Tourism Strategic Planning Consultancy (2026–2031), awarded to a joint venture between Spain's Aninver Development Partners and Sri Lanka's EML Consultants PLC, will develop a five-year framework covering demand and supply analysis, investment needs, regulatory updates, workforce training, and execution. Concurrently, the Global Destination Communication Campaign Road Map Consultancy, led by US-based Skift Inc. and Sri Lankan MTI Consulting, will craft a five-year international marketing plan. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe emphasized that Sri Lanka, as a compact ... 
