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Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes

ISSN : 1755-4217

Article publication date: 7 June 2021

Issue publication date: 21 July 2021

The tourism industry has been extensively affected by numerous disasters throughout its history including 30 decades of ethnic war, the tsunami disaster in 2004 and the Easter Sunday attack in 2019 substantially impacted the resources and capacities of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka. This study aims to explore the impact of COVID-19 on Sri Lanka as a tourism destination and the tourism industry as a resilient sector of the economy.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study was conducted from July 2020 to September 2020 focusing on the perspectives of multi-level stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry in three distinct areas of Sri Lanka, namely, the coastal area, hill country and cultural triangle. The data were collected from 15 stakeholders via semistructured interviews. Convenience sampling method was used to choose the sample and thematic analysis was occupied to meet the study objectives.

This study will help to reframe the resources and capacities of the country as an emerging destination identifying the diverse credentials from the perspective of different stakeholders to embed the essential resilience after the pandemic.

Research limitations/implications

The prevailing lockdown situation and travel restrictions within the country was a huge challenge during the data collection process. Further to that, the respondents were reluctant to meet outsiders owing to the health threat, and hence some important stakeholders were missing from the study.

Originality/value

This study proposes effective measures to build up a robust destination, necessary strategic planning for policymakers and provisions for stakeholders in the industry to address the health and safety of travelers in the case of future potential health epidemics.

• Tourism industry
• Health pandemics
• Destination resilience
• Stakeholders’ perception

Karunarathne, A.C.I.D. , Ranasinghe, J.P.R.C. , Sammani, U.G.O. and Perera, K.J.T. (2021), "Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism operations and resilience: stakeholders’ perspective in Sri Lanka", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes , Vol. 13 No. 3, pp. 369-382. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-01-2021-0009

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Assessment of tourism impact of Sri Lanka – A Research Proposal

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Clement Tisdell

General background is provided on the potential of tourism growth to contribute to economic development, paying particular attention to the experience of Sri Lanka. An overview of trends in inbound tourism to Sri Lanka is presented with particular consideration being given to its number of inbound tourist arrivals. Sri Lanka’s comparative position in international tourism markets, the composition of its tourist arrivals by area of origin, the extent of foreign earnings by the Sri Lankan tourism industry and variations in the amount of these earnings, and the extent of employment generation by this industry are examined. Regional aspects of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka are given special consideration, and this is followed by a report on the regional economic impact of tourism of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This major tourist attraction near the edge of the Western Highlands of Sri Lanka is shown to make a significant contribution to economic decentralisation. A general discussion follows of tourism development in the Sri Lankan context. The main factors that have hindered tourism growth in Sri Lanka and its decentralisation are considered. Indications are that major impediment posed by civil disturbance and terrorism is at an end in Sri Lanka.

Sriyantha Fernando

After the end of nearly three decades long civil war in 2009, Sri Lanka is experiencing a tourism boom with a record level of international tourist arrivals. The Sri Lankan government has now identified tourism as a main component in its post-war development strategy. Despite this new policy enthusiasm there is dearth of research on tourism in Sri Lanka. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to contribute to the literature on tourism in Sri Lanka in a number of ways. First, it provides a systematic historical narrative on Sri Lankan tourism and explains how Sri Lanka missed opportunities in the past. Second, it develops a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model focusing on tourism and constructs a database with an emphasis on tourism. Third, it examines the economy-wide effects of the post-war tourism boom in Sri Lanka.

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Ruwan Ranasinghe

Tourism income is one of the important segments that contribute to the Sri Lankan economy. Recent trends of Sri Lankan Gross Domestic Production (GDP) shows a significant role which played by the service sector indicating over 60 percent contribution. Island economies such as Bahamas and Maldives secures half of their government revenue from tourism where in Sri Lanka it remains at the fifth place in terms of foreign revenue earning items. Equally, of those economies where tourism is bullying, tourism related activities play a critical role in generating tourism income, foreign direct investment, employment opportunities as well as increasing gross domestic production. Thus, with an eye to clarify the relationships between tourism income and economic growth of Sri Lanka this study explores the significant variables contribute to tourism income and their relationships with the overall GDP. In order to achieve research objectives the quantitative approach was entrusted through secondary data based OLS regression analysis of the data from 1979 to 2017. This paper analyzed the contribution of tourism income for the growth of Sri Lankan economy using time series analysis using the data from 1970-2017. The researcher identified relationship between economic growth and tourism income in terms of four macroeconomic variables. Political stability is used as a proxy which has been tested as a dummy variable. Findings show significant relationships among macroeconomic variables tested and the economic growth of the Island. Stable political condition is positively influenced on tourism income. This study highlighted the country has to maintain and promote tourism destinations and stable political situation to secure stable tourism income and long term economic growth.

Thus, this study investigates the key question ‘what kind of a relationship exists between tourism income and Sri Lankan economic growth and it further clarifies what are the significant variables influence on tourism income in Sri Lanka to explain the relationship between growth of Sri Lankan economy and tourism income. The paper expects to elaborate on how service industries like tourism can contribute to postwar economies in securing much waited economic prosperity. Further it clarifies the important areas of tourism to secure its contribution to economic growth in island economies for policy planning and implementation.

Zahra Akbari

International tourism industry as an important economic sector has many of social, cultural and economic impacts on the economy of destination. This study investigated the role of international tourism income in economy of selected countries. The distribution pattern of international tourism income within OECD and G77 countries was followed. Totally 105 countries were selected including thirty three OECD and seventy two G77 countries. Based on the position of these countries in GDP per capita ranking, OECD and G77 countries were classified respectively in two groups – high-income countries and medium-income countries within the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development; developing countries and least developed countries within G77. International tourism information of the countries was analyzed by Minitab, using correlations and principal component analysis. International tourism information includes annual receipts of international tourism industry, share of international tourism receipts in GDP and its growth in a period of ten years and etc. The results indicated that, although the OECD countries had the largest share of tourism receipts in the world, the contribution of international tourism income to GDP in these countries posted negative growth in a period of ten years. Conversely, this growth experienced a positive trend for G77 countries. Therefore, in order to approach the Millennium Goals in poverty alleviation, the pattern of international tourism income distribution can be taken into serious consideration. Also the results show the importance of a common problem in international tourism industry of developing countries. The problem is this fact that the big part of international tourism income doesn’t reach the local economy. Innovation of this research is the detailed comparison of developed and developing countries, dividing the each of them into two sub-groups, and the finding an interesting trend which attracts the scientific and practical attention. Key words: international tourism, economic growth, developed and developing countries, tourism income.

Tourism as a social activity is becoming increasingly popular, as both domestic and international visitors are being attracted by places and communities of interest all over the world. While considering its significant economic benefits to the lesser developed nations, it is identified as a key contributor to the badly needed socio-economic development. Tourism in Sri Lanka is primarily a planned activity as it is expecting to manage flows of tourists for economic gains. For that to happen, it is exposed to the opportunities as it is endowed with potential resources in the context of the present global economy. This paper critically looks at the contribution of the tourist industry in the economy of Sri Lanka in terms of foreign exchange earnings, employment generation, regional development, government revenue, etc. In this context, tourism can be recognised as a ‘change agent’ in this developing nation that deals with addressing the disparities of socio-economic development. Presently, the country is looking forward to exploit its full potential for progressing on gains of its tourism industry and benefiting from it.

Ahamed Lebbe M Mohamed Aslam

Nowadays, policy makers believe that the tourism is a positive tool for economic growth of nations because which helps to economies of countries by several ways. In Sri Lankan experience it was not statistically confirmed. The aim of this study was to test the nexus between the tourism earnings and the gross domestic product in Sri Lanka. To test this nexus this study used time series data during the period of 1970 to 2014, and employed the multiple regressions model. In this study, the gross domestic product in constant price was used as dependant variable and exchange rate, foreign remittance, tourism earning, and inflation rate were considered as independent variables. Based on the regression outcomes, this study found that the tourism positively maintained the nexus on the gross domestic product in Sri Lanka at five percent significant level.

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In countries like Maldives, Malaysia, Singapore and Spain, tourism and related recreation activities play a significant role in the generation of income / foreign exchange and provision of employment opportunities. In fact, in the global context this industry is identified as the single largest economic contributor. Moreover, tourism plays a crucial role in the attainment of macroeconomic stability. Besides, the political stability of a country has a major impact on its tourism industry. According to the preceding view, this paper aims at analysing empirically the significance of tourism in the Sri Lankan economy from 1970 to 2008. The relationship will be analyzed based on a time series approach. The study will endeavour to estimate the relationship between economic performance and tourism revenue, subject to main macroeconomic variables and political stability of the country. With respect to policy implications, the study recommends that the role of tourism could be highly emphasized in the sustainable economic development with a stable political environment.

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Remarkable rebound of Sri Lanka’s Tourism sector: RIUNIT report

December, 6, 2023 -->

The Research Intelligence Unit (RIUNIT) has released a comprehensive report shedding light on the current state of the Sri Lankan Travel and Tourism sector. Despite the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic crises, the data reveals promising trends in tourist arrivals and spending, indicating a gradual recovery in the industry, paving the way for ample opportunities for investors to explore.

In an exclusive interview with the research team, Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau said that “the 2023 tourist arrival trends paint an optimistic picture, especially when reflecting on the circumstances of the past year. We have successfully accelerated the recovery process despite numerous challenges, from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to the recent economic crisis. In contrast to our competitors such as Malaysia, India, and Vietnam, who did not experience economic challenges, our recovery, when compared to theirs in numbers, stands out significantly. We anticipate an even more substantial year ahead for us. We are currently formulating a comprehensive plan that will be unveiled in the coming month”

The report indicates a notable surge in tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka, reflecting renewed confidence in travel. In 2022, there was a significant year-on-year growth of 270.18%, with a total of 719,978 visitors. The trend has continued into 2023, with tourist arrivals totaling 904,318 from January to August, surpassing the entire year's arrivals in 2022.

After a sharp decline in 2020 and 2021, tourism receipts saw a slight increase in 2022, reaching US$1,136.30 million. The first two quarters of 2023 also showed positive signs, with receipts totaling US$503.9 million in Q1 and US$371.1 million in Q2.

Tourism receipts Q1 2022 - Q2 2023 

Source: Compiled by the Research Intelligence Unit (RIUNIT) with data from Central Bank of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka continues to attract tourists from diverse regions, with major Middle Eastern, Indian, European, and Asian carriers contributing to the country's popularity. In 2022, Sri Lankan Airlines held the highest market share at 33.3%, followed by Qatar Airways and Emirates. In a significant turn of events, several international airlines that had temporarily suspended or significantly reduced their operations to Sri Lanka during the global COVID-19 pandemic have now resumed full-time operations.

Airlines that have recently resumed operations, launched new services, or commenced scheduled operations

Source: Compiled by the Research Intelligence Unit (RIUNIT) with data from the Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited

“Several international airlines that temporarily suspended or significantly reduced their operations to Sri Lanka during the global COVID-19 pandemic have now resumed full-time operations as passenger demand has rebounded and the payload is met. Among these airlines are QATAR Airways, SINGAPORE AIRLINES, and Emirates” - Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka (Private) Limited

The report provides insights into fluctuations in cruise line arrivals to major ports, with March 2024 emerging as the busiest month. The data indicates a growing interest in cruise tourism, with various cruise lines choosing Sri Lanka as a destination.

Total upcoming cruise arrivals to major ports by month Nov. 2023 - Apr. 2024

Source: Compiled by the Research Intelligence Unit (RIUNIT) with data from CruiseDig

The complete RIUNIT report on the Sri Lankan Travel and Tourism sector can be accessed on the organisation's website. Interested parties can visit RIUNIT website to access the full report to gain in-depth insights into the industry's current state, emerging trends, and potential investment opportunities.

The Research Intelligence Unit is a London based think tank with a strong presence in Asia and recently celebrated 20 years of service in Sri Lanka.

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Sri Lanka's Economy Shows Signs of Stabilization, but Poverty to Remain Elevated

COLOMBO, April 2, 2024 —Sri Lanka’s economy is projected to see moderate growth of 2.2% in 2024, showing signs of stabilization, following the severe economic downturn of 2022. But, the country still faces elevated poverty levels, income inequality, and labor market concerns, says the World Bank's latest bi-annual update.

Released today, the Sri Lanka Development Update, Bridge to Recovery, highlights that Sri Lanka saw declining inflation, higher revenues on the back of the implementation of new fiscal policies, and a current account surplus for the first time in nearly five decades, buoyed by increased remittances and a rebound in tourism.

However, poverty rates continued to rise for the fourth year in a row, with an estimated 25.9% of Sri Lankans living below the poverty line in 2023. Labor force participation has also seen a decline, particularly among women and in urban areas, exacerbated by the closure of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Households are grappling with multiple pressures from high prices, income losses, and under employment. This has led to households taking on debt to meet food requirements and maintain spending on health and education.

“Sri Lanka’s economy is on the road to recovery, but sustained efforts to mitigate the impact of the economic crisis on the poor and vulnerable are critical, alongside a continuation of the path of robust and credible structural reforms,” emphasized Faris Hadad-Zervos, World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka . “This involves a two-pronged strategy: first, to maintain reforms that contribute to macroeconomic stability and second, to accelerate reforms to stimulate private investment and capital inflows, which are crucial for economic growth and poverty reduction.”

Looking forward, the report projects a modest pickup in growth of 2.5% in 2025, with a gradual increase in inflation and a small current account surplus. However, high debt service obligations are expected to exert pressure on fiscal balances. Poverty rates are anticipated to remain above 22% until 2026. Risks to the outlook remain, particularly related to inadequate debt restructuring, reversal of reforms, financial sector vulnerabilities, and the enduring impact of the crisis. The report emphasizes that strong reform implementation will be fundamental to fostering a resilient economy through continued macro-fiscal-financial stability, greater private sector investment, and addressing risks associated with state-owned enterprises.

The Sri Lanka Development Update  is a companion piece to the  South Asia Development Update ,  a twice-a-year World Bank report that examines economic developments and prospects in the South Asia region and analyzes policy challenges faced by countries. The April 2024 edition, Jobs for Resilience , projects South Asia to remain the fastest-growing region in the world, with growth projected to be 6.0% in 2024- driven mainly by robust growth in India and recoveries in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But this strong outlook is deceptive, says the report. For most countries, growth is still below pre-pandemic levels and is reliant on public spending. At the same time, private investment growth has slowed sharply in all South Asian countries and the region is not creating enough jobs to keep pace with its rapidly increasing working-age population. The report recommends a range of policies to spur firm growth and boost employment as well as help lift growth and productivity and free up space for public investments in climate adaptation.

Source: World Bank, Poverty & Equity and Macroeconomics, Trade & Investment Global Practices. Emissions data sourced from CAIT and OECD.

Notes: e = estimate, f = forecast.

(a)    Components of GDP by expenditure for 2020-2022 are estimates, as the data published on March 15, 2024, by authorities only included GDP by production.

(b)    Calculations based on SAR-POV harmonization, using 2019-HIES. Actual data: 2019. Microsimulation that models sectoral GDP growth rates, inflation, remittances, employment, and cash transfers 2020-2022. Nowcast and forecast (2023-2026) use nominal GDP growth rates by sector and CPI inflation.

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