Tourism Deputy Minister receives top global tourism award in Seoul

Saturday, 6 June 2026 00:55 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe recognised at Seoul International Travel Fair 2026

First Sri Lankan to receive SITF Eminent Tourism Pioneer Award

Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe

Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe has been recognised with the 2026 SITF Eminent Tourism Pioneer Award at the 41st Seoul International Travel Fair (SITF) in South Korea, becoming the first Sri Lankan to receive the international honour.

The award was presented on 4 June at the SamcheongGak cultural complex in Seoul following an evaluation process conducted by the SITF Tourism Award Committee, which assesses contributions to tourism research and industry development.

According to Sri Lanka Tourism, the annual award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of the tourism sector through academic, policy and industry engagement. This year, three South Korean and three international tourism personalities were selected.

Sri Lanka Tourism said Prof. Ranasinghe’s recognition marks the first time in the 41-year history of the Seoul International Travel Fair that a Sri Lankan has been included among the award recipients.

In a statement, Prof. Ranasinghe said the recognition reflected Sri Lanka’s growing visibility within the global tourism industry and highlighted the country’s efforts to strengthen its position as a tourism destination.

The recognition comes as Sri Lanka continues efforts to expand tourism arrivals and earnings, with the sector remaining one of the country’s key sources of foreign exchange. Authorities have been pursuing initiatives aimed at improving destination competitiveness, strengthening tourism infrastructure and diversifying tourism offerings.

Sri Lanka Tourism said the award also highlighted the country’s contribution to tourism research and policy development, while supporting broader efforts to position Sri Lanka within international tourism networks and industry forums.