The Hon. K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, I am pleased to speak on how the regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act affect tourism.

¶ 02 We acknowledge some progress in tourism this year. Government Ministers emphasize tourist arrivals and suggest it all happened within their one-year program. In my view, this progress is not solely due to you; over the past decade there has been incremental improvement, though unfortunately disrupted by the pandemic and the Easter attacks, causing declines. The subsequent policy measures across governments helped bring us to this point. Yet much remains for government attention.

¶ 03 In tourism, the hotel sector is crucial—not just five-star properties. Much of our tourism is linked to the coast and localities: Hikkaduwa, the East—Trincomalee, Kitulgala and Pinnawala—where thousands of small hotels contribute. Many faced severe difficulties. Due to pandemic and Easter shocks, they took loans to survive. Both the last and current governments promised relief; yet many owners have obtained no solution and are now destitute.

¶ 04 They also struggle under current tax structures. The government promised to reduce or reform taxes—no concrete action yet. Electricity bills—again promises to reduce; instead, we saw another 6% increase recently, with more to come. Many cannot pay electricity, water, municipal fees, income tax, and VAT simultaneously. We need targeted relief.

¶ 05 If the government truly wants to develop tourism, focus attention—especially by the Minister of Tourism—on reviving hotel owners and addressing their issues.

¶ 06 Finally, in the Kegalle District, which I represent—Hon. Deputy Chairperson: Hon. Member, your time is up.

¶ 07 Please grant me one more minute.

¶ 08 In Kitulgala, the country’s premier site for water rafting, many youth are engaged in the activity. We need a proper development plan to support and grow this segment. I request the government’s attention. Thank you.