AGP Executive Report

Easter Sunday Probe: A Colombo court has imposed a foreign travel ban on former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as investigators widen the 2019 Easter bombings case, with CID saying the attacks were planned and coordinated under former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay. Tourism & Stays: Shangri-La Hambantota marks its 10th anniversary, spotlighting a decade of resort growth in Sri Lanka’s deep south with golf, wellness, wildlife and community-led experiences. Bilateral Travel Links: Sri Lanka and the Maldives are deepening cooperation, including a Mutual Legal Assistance deal in criminal matters, aimed at stronger security and law-enforcement coordination. Digital Payments for Visitors: India–Cambodia UPI QR payments go live, a reminder of how fast cross-border payment options are expanding for travellers across the region. Sports Tourism: West Indies Academy begins a reciprocal multi-format tour of Sri Lanka, while Sri Lanka also drew first blood in an ODI series with a commanding win over West Indies. Cricket Calendar Watch: India’s Kohli is ruled out of Afghanistan ODIs due to a hamstring injury, with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rajat Patidar among the likely replacements for tours that include Sri Lanka.

Tourism Boost: Sri Lanka’s tourism keeps climbing, hitting 1,022,022 arrivals in the first five months of 2026, with May alone bringing 145,745 visitors (India led with 60,342). New Resort Investment (Ella): Vella Group will expand 98 Acres Resort & Spa in Ella with a USD 5.1M BOI-backed deal, adding 11 villas and 32 rooms plus a new restaurant and upgraded wellness/yoga centre, creating about 150 jobs. Connectivity for Travelers: Jetstar plans direct Colombo–Australia flights from August 2026, a move expected to lift tourism and people-to-people links. Visa Relief for UK Travelers: Sri Lanka scrapped the ETA fee for UK passport holders (effective May 25), letting eligible visitors stay up to 30 days—still requiring an ETA application. Easter Bombings Probe: A Colombo court ordered a foreign travel ban on former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as investigators widen the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks case.

Tourism Boost: Sri Lanka’s tourism has crossed the one-million mark, with 1,022,022 arrivals in the first five months of 2026, including 145,745 visitors in May alone, led by India (60,342 in May; 250,260 since Jan). New Resort Investment: Ella’s 98 Acres Resort & Spa will expand under a USD 5.1M BOI deal with Vella Group, adding 11 villas and 32 deluxe rooms plus a new restaurant and upgraded wellness/yoga centre, creating about 150 jobs over 36 months. Air Connectivity Push: Australia-backed support for Sri Lanka’s RCEP bid came alongside a major travel win—direct Jetstar flights from Colombo to Australia are expected to start in August 2026. Urban Tourism Infrastructure: Cabinet approved a Rs 1.475 billion urban development programme to speed up city branding and priority infrastructure in places like Colombo, Kandy, Anuradhapura and Kataragama. Travel & Safety Note: A Bangkok taxi driver returned 8,500 euros and valuables to Sri Lankan tourists after coordinating via FM91.

IMF Update for Sri Lanka: The IMF has completed its Fifth and Sixth Reviews under the EFF, unlocking a US$695m cash release and bringing total IMF support since 2022 to about US$2.4bn—good news, but the economy is still “stable, not out of danger.” Currency Pressure: Sri Lanka’s rupee remains under gradual weakening pressure, with renewed debate over whether policymakers should intervene to prop up the rate. Rupee Watch: A fresh call to “hold the line on the Rupee” highlights how exchange-rate politics can distort incentives and drain reserves. Tourism Transport: The luxury airport luxury bus service between BIA Katunayake and Makumbura has resumed, with Rs. 410 fares and frequent runs for travellers. Road Safety: During Vesak, police reported 19 accidents and 24 deaths over two days, with authorities warning against drunk and reckless driving. Luxury Hospitality Investment: Ella’s 98 Acres Resort & Spa signs a USD 5.1m BOI deal to expand in two phases, targeting 150 direct jobs and boosting high-end tourism. Visa/Travel Ease: Sri Lanka expands visa-free entry for visitors from 40 countries, aiming to lift arrivals. Cricket & Travel Tie-in: West Indies Academy departs for a June 3–27 Sri Lanka tour, adding more sports travel buzz around the island. Legal/Accountability: Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been allowed to testify online in the 2011 disappearance case of two rights activists.

IMF Cash Boost: Sri Lanka’s Fifth and Sixth IMF reviews are completed, unlocking a US$695m tranche and bringing total IMF support since 2022 to about US$2.4bn, as officials warn the economy is “stable, but not out of danger.” Road Safety Shock (Vesak): Police report 19 accidents over two Vesak days with 24 deaths, including 13 pedestrians, as authorities push tougher action on drunk and reckless driving. Airport-to-City Travel: The luxury bus service between Bandaranaike International Airport and Makumbura has resumed at Rs. 410, with a 50-minute trip and frequent daily runs. Luxury Tourism Investment: Ella’s 98 Acres Resort & Spa signs a USD 5.1m BOI deal to expand in two phases over 36 months, targeting about 150 jobs. Visa & Mobility for Visitors: Sri Lanka expands visa-free entry/fee waivers for more countries, aiming to make the island easier to visit. Cybercrime Crackdown: Police say a “Dubai Sudda” suspect was arrested for allegedly using tourist visas to send workers for employment scams. Cricket & Travel: West Indies Academy departs for a June 3–27 multi-format tour in Sri Lanka, spotlighting emerging talent and subcontinental playing conditions.

Luxury Hospitality Investment: Uva Greenlands Estate (Pvt) Ltd signed a BOI deal worth USD 5.1M to expand 98 Acres Resort & Spa in Ella in two phases over 36 months, targeting about 150 direct jobs and boosting Sri Lanka’s high-end tourism pull. Airport Connectivity: The luxury bus linking Bandaranaike International Airport to Makumbura has resumed, with a Rs. 410 fare, about 50 minutes travel time, and services every 45 minutes from 5:15am–6:30pm. Vesak Road Safety: Police reported a sharp spike in accidents during Vesak: 19 crashes, 24 deaths over two days, with authorities warning against reckless and drunk driving. Vesak Tragedy: A cab crash into a dansala queue near Meegoda killed six and injured seven, with the driver arrested after police said he was intoxicated. Tourism Access: Sri Lanka introduced free 30-day tourist visas/ETA fee waivers for citizens of 40 countries (including Oman and Gulf states), with online ETA still required. Tourism Growth Ideas: A new piece argues Sri Lanka can use the concert economy—live events plus tourism—to attract higher-value visitors and energise Colombo’s experience-led scene. E-passport Procurement Clarification: Reports of e-passport tender cancellation are said to relate to a supporting component, not the full programme, as procurement involves multiple interconnected contracts. Visa Scam Crackdown: “Dubai Sudda” (Ranthatige Nissanka Priyadarshana) was arrested by SLBFE’s Special Investigation Division over alleged use of tourist visas to send Sri Lankans for work. International Tourism Inspiration: Luxury Escapes launched a “World’s Best Dream Job” travel tester role, including Sri Lanka itineraries.

Tourism & Visas: Sri Lanka has introduced free 30-day tourist visas via online ETA for citizens of 40 countries, including Oman and several Gulf states, aiming to lift arrivals and tourism-linked growth. Vesak Safety: A cab crash into a Vesak dansala queue in Meegoda killed six (including a 15-year-old) and injured seven; police say the driver was intoxicated and was arrested. Fuel & Cost of Living: Fuel prices jumped again, with petrol 92 up to Rs. 434 and petrol 95 to Rs. 495, reigniting inflation and household pressure. Ebola Preparedness: The Health Ministry says Sri Lanka is ready to respond to Ebola risks, with monitoring for travellers and preparedness plans aligned with WHO guidance. Investment Push: BOI launched “Ready to Invest,” a digital platform listing $3b+ in investor-ready projects across tourism, logistics, ICT, renewables and more. Infrastructure: President to inaugurate Central Expressway Phase II (Rambukkana–Galagedara), a key connectivity boost for trade and tourism. Luxury Travel Buzz: Luxury Escapes is running a “World’s Best Dream Job” travel tester role, including a Sri Lanka itinerary. Ayurveda Retreat: A seven-day detox retreat at Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort highlights Sri Lanka’s wellness tourism appeal. Business Climate: Ceylon Chamber welcomed IMF review approval, urging continued reform momentum to protect recovery.

IMF Boost for Recovery: The IMF approved Sri Lanka’s combined Fifth and Sixth Reviews, unlocking about $700m and keeping the reform push on track, with growth revised to 3% for 2026 and calls to finish public finance and electricity reforms. Fuel Price Hit: After the IMF payout, Sri Lanka raised fuel prices by up to 6%, lifting petrol and auto diesel costs as subsidy cuts move forward. FDI Push via BOI: The BOI launched “Ready to Invest”, a digital platform showcasing $3b+ in investor-ready projects across tourism, logistics, ICT, manufacturing, and more. Central Expressway Phase II: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will inaugurate construction of Phase II (Rambukkana–Galagedara), a key Colombo–Central Province connectivity upgrade expected to support trade and tourism. Colombo Port Expansion Plan: SLPA says it’s targeting up to $2b in port and logistics investments, including a proposed logistics hub inside Port of Colombo to ease congestion. Power Grid & Rooftop Solar: The NSO asked rooftop solar owners to switch off generation 8am–3pm after a Vesak-related grid imbalance caused outages. Vesak Beyond the Lights: Vesak coverage also leaned into deeper Dhamma reflection, not just celebrations. Tourism Angle on Costs: One story captured how a weak rupee is making overseas travel feel financially out of reach for many Sri Lankans. Trusted Partnerships Theme: Germany’s business forum flagged Sri Lanka as a strategic Indo-Pacific partner, urging faster reforms to unlock investment in logistics, maritime, renewables, and tourism. Monk Abuse Case: Sri Lanka’s Buddhist hierarchy suspended a senior monk accused of child sexual abuse, a major shock amid Vesak.

Colombo Port Push: SLPA says Colombo is nearing full capacity after 22% growth in April and is lining up up to $2bn in port and logistics investments, including PPP-led expansions and a new logistics hub plan at the German-Sri Lanka business forum. Tourism Access Boost: Sri Lanka has waived visa fees for visitors from 40 countries, with free ETA/30-day entry still requiring an online application. Vesak Transport: Special rail and bus services are running today and tomorrow to move devotees to Vesak sites, with SLTB and other operators adding capacity around key zones. Diplomatic & Travel Links: Sri Lanka opened a new High Commission in Wellington, aiming to deepen cooperation in trade, education and tourism with New Zealand. Air Connectivity: VietJet Air opened its Colombo office and plans to launch Colombo–Ho Chi Minh City flights from August 2026. Investment for Agro-Tourism: The second phase of Sri Lanka’s state plantation asset programme is now open, offering plantation lands, tea factories, bungalows and agro-tourism projects for investors. Wildlife Warning: Yala’s leopard hotspots face overcrowding and “leopard jams” as visitor numbers surge, raising safety and conservation concerns. Culture & Community: Eight Sri Lankan cocktail bars are showcasing in Bangkok to put local mixology on Asia’s hospitality map. Legal/Travel Risk: A court ordered the arrest of former tourism-linked minister Basil Rajapaksa over alleged misuse of SLTPB funds, with a foreign travel ban also sought.

Vesak Travel Push: Sri Lanka has rolled out special transport for Vesak, with extra trains between Colombo Fort and Anuradhapura and buses covering all provinces, plus SLTB services around Vesak zones. Visa Relief for Tourists: Sri Lanka has waived tourist visa fees for nationals of 40 countries, with free ETA for 30 days—UK and US included—though travellers still must apply for the ETA. New Air Link: VietJet Air opened its Colombo office, with Colombo–Ho Chi Minh City flights expected from August 2026 (four round trips weekly), boosting travel and trade ties. Diplomatic Boost for Tourism: Sri Lanka inaugurated its new High Commission in Wellington, aiming to strengthen consular services and cooperation in trade, education and tourism. Investment Spotlight: Sri Lanka launched the second phase of its State Plantation Asset Programme, offering plantation lands, tea factories, bungalows and agro-tourism projects to local and foreign investors. Wildlife Warning: Yala’s leopard conservation is under pressure from overcrowding and speeding safari jeeps, with “leopard jams” increasingly reported. Eco-Travel Idea: A Sri Lankan cocktail showcase is heading to Bangkok, with eight top bars presenting local mixology abroad.

Visa Relief for Tourists: Sri Lanka has waived tourist visa fees for nationals of 40 countries, with travellers still required to get a free ETA for 30 days (no refunds for fees paid before May 25). Diplomatic Boost for Travel & Trade: Sri Lanka opened its new High Commission in Wellington, New Zealand, aiming to strengthen consular services and cooperation in trade, education and tourism. Ports & Logistics Push: Sri Lanka Ports Authority unveiled a potential US$2bn investment pipeline to upgrade ports and shift toward a world-class logistics hub. IMF Reform Watch: The IMF approved a US$695m tranche after Sri Lanka’s 5th and 6th reviews, but warned growth may slow to around 3% in 2026 amid Middle East risks, higher oil prices and weaker tourism receipts. Wildlife & Power Concerns: Three flamingos died after colliding with overhead power lines in Mannar, adding pressure on safer infrastructure near wetlands. Vesak Transport: Special bus and train services have been arranged across provinces for Vesak travel. Tourism Accountability: Court ordered the arrest of former Tourism Promotion Bureau-linked figures, including Basil Rajapaksa, over alleged misuse of SLTPB funds for political campaigning. Labour Rights Alert: Amnesty reported forced-labour indicators affecting Malaiyaha Tamil workers on private tea estates, including threats, violence and debt bondage.

Tourism Visa Boost: Sri Lanka has officially scrapped the $50 tourist visa fee for eligible travellers from 40 countries, with free entry for up to 30 days (ETAs still required). Vesak Travel Moves: Special Vesak transport services are running across Sri Lanka, with buses from Colombo Fort to all provinces plus extra trains to Vesak zones. Maritime & Logistics Push: Sri Lanka Ports Authority says a US$2 billion investment pipeline is in the works to upgrade the country into a world-class logistics hub. IMF Update for Travellers: The IMF approved a US$695m tranche, but warned Middle East war, higher oil prices and weaker tourism receipts could slow 2026 growth to 3%. Diplomacy with Tourism Links: Sri Lanka opened its new High Commission in New Zealand, aiming to improve consular services for 30,000 Sri Lankans and boost tourism cooperation. Events on the Calendar: Sri Lanka will host major international martial arts action in Negombo (May 28–June 1), with tourism promotion backing. Labour Rights Spotlight: Amnesty reports serious forced-labour abuses against Malaiyaha Tamil workers in private tea estates, raising reputational risks for the sector.

Tourism Visa Boost: Sri Lanka has officially scrapped the $50 tourist visa fee for travellers from 40 countries, with fee-free entry for up to 30 days—though an online ETA is still required before arrival. IMF & Economy: The IMF approved Sri Lanka’s combined fifth and sixth reviews, unlocking a US$695m tranche (total about US$2.4b), while warning growth may slow to around 3% in 2026 amid Middle East war and cyclone recovery pressures. Central Bank Move: Sri Lanka’s central bank raised its policy rate by 100 bps to 8.75% to tackle inflation and rupee pressure linked to energy costs. Travel & Events: Sri Lanka will host the International and Thai Martial Arts (Asian Games) Sri Lanka 2026 at Goldi Sands Hotel, Negombo (May 28–June 1), with Muaythai and boxing contests. Food & Culture: A spotlight on Sri Lanka’s Dilmah Tea and Cinnamon Experience at Genesis highlights Ceylon cinnamon heritage and tea craftsmanship for visitors. Sports: Cricket West Indies unveiled its 2026 home season, including series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan across the Caribbean.

IMF Funding Boost: The IMF has approved Sri Lanka’s combined fifth and sixth EFF reviews, unlocking about US$695m (SDR 508m) and bringing total disbursements to roughly US$2.4b, with the programme focused on fiscal stability, reserves, governance and reforms. Monetary Policy Watch: The Central Bank’s 100 bps rate hike to 8.75% is aimed at protecting FX reserves and inflation, but analysts warn it could tip into over-tightening and slow recovery. Tourism Visa Ease: Sri Lanka has made its ETA free for UK visitors (and 39 other countries), valid for 30 days, as the country pushes to attract more travellers. Travel Infrastructure: The Central Expressway second phase (Rambukkana–Galagedara) is set for inauguration on Friday (29), improving connectivity and cutting travel time. Cruise Tourism: Cordelia Cruises returns to Chennai for a fifth season, including itineraries that touch Sri Lanka (Hambantota, Trincomalee, Jaffna). Martial Arts Event: Sri Lanka will host International and Thai Martial Arts (Asian Games) Sri Lanka 2026 at Goldi Sands Hotel, Negombo from May 28–June 1, featuring Muaythai and boxing with international participation.

Visa Boost for UK Travellers: Sri Lanka has scrapped the $50 ETA fee for visitors from 40 countries, including the UK, making the ETA free for up to 30 days—just apply online before you fly. Road Connectivity: The second phase of the Central Expressway (Rambukkana–Galagedara) is set to be inaugurated on Friday, improving travel time between major regions. IMF Money Unlock: The IMF completed Sri Lanka’s Fifth and Sixth Reviews, paving the way for about US$700m (around US$695m) in financing, though it flagged continued external-shock risks. Rates Watch: Sri Lanka’s Central Bank raised the policy rate by 100 bps to 8.75% as inflation and rupee pressure tied to the Middle East conflict intensify. Tour Culture Spotlight: A viral clip from Ella railway station sparked debate on cleanliness and civic sense, with viewers comparing tourist experiences in Sri Lanka and India. Hospitality Win: Hilton Colombo picked up four global awards at the Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards, including best guest service and leading culinary hotel in Asia. Travel Safety Note: Health experts urged vigilance over a suspected Ebola case in India, stressing Sri Lanka’s current risk remains low.

Tourism Boost: Sri Lanka has scrapped the $50 ETA fee for visitors from 40 countries, including the UK, effective now—so travellers can apply online and stay up to 30 days without paying the charge. Visa Push: The fee-free scheme also covers many other key markets (EU countries, US, India, China, and more), but travellers still need to get the ETA before departure. Money & Markets: Sri Lanka’s central bank shocked markets with a 100-bp rate hike to 8.75% as inflation and rupee pressure tied to the Middle East energy shock continue. Human Rights Spotlight: Amnesty International released a report alleging serious labour abuses against Malaiyaha Tamil workers on private tea estates in the south, including intimidation, violence, debt bondage, and withheld wages. Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath received a traditional Māori welcome in New Zealand and is set to open Sri Lanka’s High Commission in Wellington. Travel Infrastructure: The second phase of the Central Expressway (Rambukkana–Galagedara) is set for an inauguration ceremony on Friday.