Economy

Sri Lanka’s Sigiriya is officially the world’s most welcoming city for 2025

Published

2 years ago

February 10, 2025

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, has been ranked as the World’s Most Welcoming City for 2025 by Booking.com. The recognition is based on over 360 million verified customer reviews, highlighting the destination’s hospitality and charm.

Full Report

Travelers are increasingly drawn to authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, shaped by exceptional hospitality and service. As part of the thirteenth edition of the Traveller Review Awards, Booking.com unveils the 10 Most Welcoming Cities on Earth for 20251, along with tips and recommendations to help travelers fully embrace the charm of these unique destinations. Backed by over 360 million verified customer reviews on Booking.com, the featured accommodations are celebrated for consistently delivering outstanding hospitality.

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s ‘Cultural Triangle,’ Sigiriya is a must-see destination that seamlessly combines natural splendor with deep history. The iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking views and highlights the architectural brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka. In the late 5th century, King Kashyapa established his royal capital here, crowning the summit with an elaborate palace adorned with vibrant frescoes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the nearby village, renowned for its fabrics and handicrafts, including batiks (fabrics with ornate designs traditionally created using wax), ornamental pots, and handloom textiles. The lush landscapes of Minneriya National Park are also famous for its spectacular wild elephant gatherings. From conquering the ascent to the fortress to embracing the tranquility of village life, Sigiriya presents an unforgettable blend of adventure and serenity.

Economy

Vehicle imports generate Rs. 512.5 billion in tax revenue

Published

1 day ago

September 8, 2026

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Sri Lanka imported 316,000 vehicles during the first six months of 2026, generating Rs. 512.547 billion in tax revenue, according to officials from Sri Lanka Customs.

The figures were revealed during a review of the operations and revenue performance of Sri Lanka Customs by the Parliamentary Committee on Ways and Means.

Of the total tax revenue generated through vehicle imports, motor vehicles imports accounted for the largest share, contributing Rs. 386.726 billion.

Petrol-powered cars with engine capacities below 1,000cc emerged as the highest revenue-generating category, contributing Rs. 137.4 billion in Customs revenue. This represented 9.96% of total Customs revenue.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Customs recorded total revenue of Rs. 1.379 trillion by June 30, 2026, against an expected revenue of Rs. 1.061 trillion for the period, representing 130% of the targeted revenue.

Officials informed the committee that customs revenue had exceeded monthly targets throughout the year and had recorded higher revenue compared with the corresponding months of 2025.

Economy

Rs. 5.8bn World Bank-backed project to rehabilitate 296 irrigation tanks

Published

3 days ago

September 6, 2026

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Sri Lanka has begun rehabilitating 296 minor irrigation tanks under a World Bank-funded programme aimed at strengthening irrigation infrastructure and improving climate resilience.

More than Rs. 5.8 billion has been allocated for the work under the Integrated Rurban Development and Climate Resilience Project (IRDCRP), which is planned to continue until 2029.

Of the 296 tanks, 290 are located across 18 districts and were damaged by Cyclone Ditwah. About Rs. 5.58 billion has been allocated for their rehabilitation under the project’s Contingent Emergency Response Component.

The largest number of affected tanks is in Badulla, where 97 are being rehabilitated, followed by Ratnapura with 29, Mannar with 24 and Kurunegala with 19. Fifteen tanks each are being rehabilitated in Kandy and Vavuniya.

A further six minor irrigation tanks in Polonnaruwa, Hambantota and Jaffna are also being rehabilitated at a cost of about Rs. 256.2 million.

Economy

Sri Lanka exports to India grow 7.2% to USD 669mn in first seven months

Published

5 days ago

September 4, 2026

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Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports to India increased by 7.22% year-on-year during the first seven months of 2026, reaching US$669.36 million, according to data from the Export Development Board (EDB).

Exports to India during the January-July period rose from US$624.31 million recorded during the corresponding period of 2025.

In July alone, exports to India increased by 9.12% year-on-year to US$129.51 million, compared with US$118.69 million in July 2025.

The EDB said the cumulative growth in exports to India was mainly supported by increased shipments of boilers, piston engines, pumps and vacuum pumps, petroleum oils, animal feed and base metal products.

The growth also came amid a broader expansion in Sri Lanka’s exports to the South Asian region.

Exports to South Asian markets increased by 11.98% year-on-year to US$916.55 million during the January-July 2026 period.