Indian Tourist Arrivals in Sri Lanka Increased Rapidly in 1st Quarter. Over 90pct to Attend IIFA 2010

01st June 2010, www.dailynews.lk, Charumini de SILVA

There is over 75 percent increase on Indian tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka during the first four months of this year, Colombo City, Hoteliers Association Vice President, Amal Gunathilake said at a press briefing yesterday.
She said that Sri Lanka has a great opportunity to attract more Indian visitors in the coming years through hosting the Indian International Film Academy (IIFA) awards. Colombo city hotels have given 20 percent of their luxury rooms for celebrities who will participate at the event as a compliment.

Deputy Economic Development Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardana said Sri Lanka could expect an increase of 50 percent in the number of tourist arrivals by 2012. There is an opportunity to attract more tourists from all parts of the world.

The Deputy Minister said 97 percent of the participants have confirmed their participation at the IIFA event. Reliance Industries Chairman/Managing Director Mukesh Ambani, the world’s fourth richest man will also participate at IIFA.

This will encourage the business community in the country and will be an opportunity to draw the attention of the other global giant investors.

The Sri Lankan fashion industry has many prospects to have an exposure to the Indian market. As the cultures of both countries are similar there will be a good opportunity for local designers as well as for the models.

Sri Lankan designers Yoland And Kanchana (KT Brown) will feature in the IIFA Fashion Extravaganza an official said.

Bollywood Actor Jacqueline Fernandez said IIFA would create opportunities and benefits for the country’s tourism and film industries.