(COLOMBO) – An outspoken Sri Lankan female Government politician on Friday reiterated her call for more night life in the in the conservative island-nation in order to boost the tourism and investment sector.
State Minister for Tourism, Diana Gamage says nightlife plays a critical role in driving economic growth, citing it as a cornerstone of the night economy. She underscored that the night economy accounts for a substantial 70 percent of a country’s revenue, illustrating its significant contribution to the national coffers.
She said that night time is when people typically engage in activities such as dining and entertainment, resulting in increased revenue generation through taxes, particularly from excise duties. She stated that this revenue is essential for sustaining the country’s operations and development.
Gamage endorsed the undeniable significance of nightlife to the economy, emphasizing its integral role in generating revenue and supporting essential services.
The Minister’s comments comes within an ongoing debate on regulating nightlife and balancing the needs of various stakeholders, including residents, tourists, and businesses.
Gamage further emphasized the importance of providing entertainment options to tourists, particularly in beach areas, which are major attractions for visitors.
According to her, nightlife plays a crucial role in catering to the needs of tourists, not only in beach areas but also in urban centres like Colombo. The lawmaker noted that current regulations often restrict entertainment options, citing examples such as early last orders in hotels and restaurants, which may not align with the preferences of international tourists.
Drawing attention to the diverse origins of tourists, including those from the UK, France, and Germany, the State Minister emphasized the need for flexibility in entertainment hours to accommodate varying cultural norms and preferences. Gamage urged stakeholders to recognize the importance of extending entertainment hours to enhance the overall tourism experience and attract more visitors to the country.
Gamage who has been both encouraged and even criticized by her opponents had earlier called for prostitution and Cannabis to be legalized in the country.
