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Mattala to Be Positioned as Tourism Gateway, Says Sri Lanka Tourism ...
The future development and positioning of Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is being pursued through a joint marketing and operational strategy aimed at attracting more airlines and strengthening its role as a tourism gateway, according to Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism.Speaking at a media briefing yesterday (19), Hewawasam said the absence of scheduled airlines remains the airport’s biggest challenge, although charter operations continue during peak seasons with existing concessions already in place.He noted that the tourism authority is working together with Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd, industry operators and other stakeholders on a collective plan to promote Mattala both operationally and commercially.According to him, the airport is strategically positioned to serve as the closest and most viable alternative to Bandaranaike International Airport when flight diversions are required, although many airlines have historically opted for Trivandrum due to limited awareness of Mattala’s safety track record.Hewawasam said recent efforts by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka and other aviation bodies have helped strengthen safety standards and resolve earlier operational concerns, enabling the airport to gain wider recognition among carriers as a certified alternative destination.He added that authorities are now working on branding Mattala specifically as a tourism airport, highlighting its proximity to key travel zones in the south and east. Plans are also underway to engage airlines through dedicated sessions and marketing pitches to encourage route development.He stressed that increasing operations, including a possible role for the national carrier SriLankan Airlines, would be key to making Mattala commercially viable, noting that detailed technical and financial assessments would be required before expanding services.Source : Ada Derana BizSharing
Indian investors eye Sri Lanka's economic resurgence
Amid Sri Lanka’s journey toward economic recovery, Indian investors and businesses are closely monitoring the emerging opportunities in the local market said Vice Chairman of the Indo-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ISCCI) Dr. Naresh Bana. (Pictured)Despite strong tourism ties, Indian investment in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector remains cautious. “Indian investors, like their counterparts elsewhere, rely on credible data, projections and business prudence.”The country’s credit rating challenges, influenced by banking and financial institutions, often determine the final investment decisions. However, trading relations between the two nations remain robust. On recent economic reforms, Dr. Bana highlights Sri Lanka’s efforts to diversify investment instruments through municipal bonds, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and SME listings.“These initiatives, if executed effectively, could accelerate economic growth,” he states, adding that Indian businesses are observing these developments while awaiting more consistent, reliable data to guide their decisions. The ISCCI plays a crucial role in building Indo-Lankan economic ties. “We assist companies in securing industry tie-ups, facilitate bilateral trade, and disseminate policy-related information,” Dr. Bana shares. The Chamber’s initiatives aim to create a supportive environment for Indian investors and help Sri Lankan businesses establish a foothold in India.The Blue Economy presents significant collaborative potential for India and Sri Lanka. With expansive coastlines, the two nations can leverage marine resources for mutual benefit. Dr. Bana outlines key areas for cooperation, including Marine Domain Awareness (MDA) and maritime security, Fisheries and aquaculture, offshore energy, including hydrocarbons and wind farms, Maritime trade and connectivity, Tourism and marina development and Research and innovation.“Collaboration in these areas would unlock economic and ecological benefits for both nations.”India remains Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $5 billion in 2023. The relationship is anchored by India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy, which includes development aid, credit lines, and infrastructure investments. The Tata Group, Bajaj, ITC Hotels, Indian Oil and Airtel have significant investments in telecommunications, automotive, petrolium leisure and financial services and have established a robust presence across Lanka’s economy Additionally, the Adani Group...
Middle Eastern and Asian Investors Eye Role in Mattala Airport Revamp
May 11, Colombo (LNW): Several international investors, including prominent firms from the Middle East, India and China, have expressed interest in participating in the redevelopment and commercial management of Sri Lanka's Mattala International Airport, according to government officials. According to a report by Daily Mirror, the airport has been opened up for Expressions of Interest as ...
What the Mattala Airport says about the India -China rivalry
Geopolitical rivalry between big powers sometimes yields odd results. The latest development in growing strategic competition across the Indian Ocean region is India's purchase of what has become known as the " world's emptiest international airport" in Sri Lanka, maybe just to keep it empty. Hambantota Dreaming The small fishing town of Hambantota, near the southern tip of Sri Lanka ...
