Sri Lanka claims a stunning 11 billion dollar surge from tourism and foreign remittances in 2025, as the government links economic recovery to bold diplomatic strategy and global engagement.
Due to our diplomatic operations, we received 11 billion from tourism and foreign remittances.
Mr. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, stated that Sri Lanka’s economy recorded significant milestones in 2025, with a combined inflow of 11 billion US dollars generated through tourist arrivals and foreign remittances. He made these remarks at a press conference in Colombo, highlighting what he described as a turning point in economic recovery and international engagement.
According to official figures, tourist arrivals climbed to 2.36 million in 2025, generating 3.2 billion US dollars in tourism revenue. The steady revival of the tourism industry, supported by improved global perception and targeted diplomatic outreach, was cited as a key driver of this performance.
At the same time, foreign remittances from Sri Lankans working abroad exceeded 7.8 billion US dollars, marking a strong rebound in overseas earnings and foreign exchange inflows. Together, tourism revenue and worker remittances contributed a total of 11 billion dollars to the national economy, strengthening foreign reserves and supporting macroeconomic stability.
The minister emphasized that these gains were the result of strategic diplomatic relations, institutional reforms, and coordinated efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He linked the progress to the government’s national vision, “A Rich Country, A Beautiful Life,” under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
He further stressed the importance of responsible media reporting to enhance Sri Lanka’s global image and investor confidence, while noting that Sri Lanka Expo 2026 will showcase the country’s strengths in trade, investment, and innovation to the world.
