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Sri Lanka has welcomed its 2,333,797th tourist in 2025, surpassing the previous all-time record of 2,333,796 arrivals set in 2018.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement today, hailed the milestone as “a defining moment in the nation’s tourism journey, demonstrating resilience and renewed confidence in Sri Lanka as a premier global destination.”
The achievement is particularly significant when viewed against past records. In 2018, Sri Lanka recorded its highest arrivals at 2,333,796 tourists, while in 2024 the country welcomed 2,053,465 tourists.
Surpassing these figures in 2025 demonstrates not only recovery but also growth, positioning Sri Lanka as a resilient and competitive destination in South Asia.
Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of the Sri Lankan economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings, employment, and cultural exchange.
The ministry noted that reaching this milestone amidst challenges such as the Ditwa Cyclone disaster reflects the strength and unity of the industry and its stakeholders.
At a press conference held at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lanka Tourism recognized Mr. Felix Beslin Pereira, Mrs. Reena Fernandez, and Ms. Ann Cristina Pereira, a family from Thiruvananthapuram, India, who arrived on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 162 as the symbolic 2,333,797th guests of the year.
The ministry said their arrival represents not only a personal celebration but also a collective triumph for the nation.
Full statement:
Source : newswire.lk
