Saturday Oct 26, 2024
FT
Saturday Oct 26, 2024
Saturday, 26 October 2024 03:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
In response to recent reports of foreign nationals operating businesses without proper authorisation and overstaying their visas, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam stressed that all foreign-owned tourist establishments must abide by the country’s legal framework.
“If there are illegal, tourist-run businesses operating in the country, the law and order has to be enforced irrespective of nationality,” he told the Daily FT.
He clarified that the SLTDA supports businesses established through legal channels, highlighting the importance of foreign investment in the tourism sector.
Acknowledging that some foreign businesses may face bureaucratic hurdles, Hewawasam assured that the SLTDA is open to assisting enterprises keen on operating within legal boundaries.
The Chairman also confirmed that law enforcement agencies are currently gathering data on foreign-owned businesses in areas recently identified as high-risk by Colombo-based foreign embassies.
Earlier this week, Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya speaking to the media revealed that reports from a western intelligence agency last month highlighted a potential threat targeting locations frequented by Jewish visitors.
Industry sources said locals and businesses along Southern and Eastern coasts have voiced frustration about unlicensed foreign-run businesses impacting their income. Some have raised concerns over tourists allegedly setting up illegal shops and lodgings without proper authorisation, particularly in tourist hotsports like Weligama, Galle, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Matara.
SJB Matara District candidate Rehan Jayawickrama voiced his concerns via ‘X’ noting that the situation could pose risks to the tourism industry.
“Despite numerous appeals to various Governments’, this issue has not been addressed. Now we face security threat that could derail our tourism recovery efforts,” he noted.
