In a telling effect of the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Sri Lanka passed April without a single incoming tourist, as per latest data released.
The historic development is in view of Sri Lankan borders being closed for tourists, a move applied by most countries in line with measures to stem the spread of COVID-19.
The monthly statistical bulletin of Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), depicted “0” for tourist arrivals in the month of April. The Government terminated arrivals of all passenger flights and ships into Sri Lanka from 18 March 2020.
With this zero figure, tourist arrivals in the first four months are now down by 44.1% to 507,311 from a year earlier. As entry of foreigners continue in tandem with travel restrictions globally, tourist arrivals in May is likely to be zero as well.
(FT)