Sri Lanka and China partner on tourism initiatives

Sri Lanka and China reached a consensus on several joint projects to strengthen the tourism sector following an official visit by Deputy Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe to Sichuan Tourism College.

The cooperation includes the establishment of a Chinese Sichuan Cuisine Academy and a joint research centre for mountain tourism. The Foreign Ministry noted that plans also involve launching a cultural tourism platform, developing a hospitality innovation centre, and increasing Sri Lankan student enrollment in China.

During the visit, Deputy Minister Ranasinghe highlighted the potential for growth through shared resources, stating:

"Culture is a core driving force for tourism development. Policy coordination, infrastructure connectivity, digital empowerment, and educational exchanges under the Belt and Road Initiative can transform cultural bonds into sustainable cooperation."

As of 2026, China remains a top source market for the island, with authorities targeting 300,000 Chinese visitors annually. This partnership expanded following the President's state visit to Beijing in 2025, which led to improved aviation links and the introduction of digital payment platforms like WeChat Pay to assist local vendors. Despite these growing ties with China, India continues to provide the highest number of tourists to Sri Lanka.