Cabinet Co-Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena

• Approves new measures to boost maritime passenger transport and tourism between Sri Lanka and India
• Slashes embarkation levy for passenger ferries from $ 60 to $ 5 and passenger ships from $ 60 to $ 20
• Increases baggage allowances from 50 kg to 60 kg

By Charumini de Silva

In a bid to boost maritime passenger transport between Sri Lanka and India, the Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved introducing an affordable travel and transportation fee system.

The move was spearheaded by the Ports, Shipping and Aviation Ministry to enhance connectivity between the two countries and promote tourism by making travel more accessible and cost-effective.

As per the approved measures, the embarkation tax currently levied on passengers departing Sri Lanka via passenger ferries is reduced from $ 60 to $ 5, whilst the passenger ships will be slashed from $ 60 to $ 20.

In addition to lowering the embarkation tax, the Cabinet has also approved the provision of increasing the baggage allowance from 50 kg to 60 kg for passenger vessels, to further incentivise maritime travel and enhance the overall passenger experience.In 2023, India retained its position as the single biggest market including 302,844 tourists (21%) of 1.48 million total arrivals. India remains strong as the top tourist source market for Sri Lanka till 15 February with a cumulative total of 49,619 arrivals.

Cabinet Co-Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena speaking at the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday highlighted the potential of maritime passenger transport to serve as a catalyst for tourism growth and bilateral cooperation.

“During last year the tourism sector has shown significant improvement and Indian travellers were a big part of this tourist influx. Recognising the potential of increased maritime passenger transport to promote tourism and facilitate cultural exchange, the move is expected to pave the way for increased collaboration and mutual benefits in various sectors,” he added.

The proposal to this effect submitted by Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Monday.

Sri Lanka-India ETCA negotiations to enter 14th round next month