IFC invests in Melwa Hotels to boost tourism infrastructure in Sri Lanka

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is investing $ 27 million in Melwa Hotels and Resorts Ltd. for the development of three hotels across Sri Lanka. 

The investment will increase Sri Lanka’s capacity in the tourism sector, create jobs and generate more foreign exchange. The hotels will be operated by Hilton Hotels. The investment will help Melwa Hotels develop three new hotels outside of Colombo, in Yala, Kosgoda and Negombo. A subsidiary of Melwire Rolling Ltd, the company is a new entrant to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.

“In addition to the funding, Melwa will also benefit from IFC’s expertise and advice as we diversify into tourism,” said Melwa Managing Director P.P. Muruganandhan. 

“The access to global experts and sectoral knowledge and best practices will be key to ensure that we build hotels that are profitable, sustainable and contribute to the local economies where they are located.”

The tourism industry is a key pillar of growth for Sri Lanka’s economy. However, much of the country’s tourism potential remains underdeveloped, while other parts are growing in an unsustainable way. This project fits well with the Sri Lankan Government’s goal to grow the tourism industry while minimising potential negative environmental and social impacts.

“Investments in tourism lead to job creation, generation of revenues and foreign exchange and strengthens local suppliers,” said Sri Lanka and the Maldives IFC Country Manager Amena Arif. “IFC will also provide advice to Melwa Hotels on how to manage environmental and biodiversity matters to minimise their environmental footprint.”

The tourism industry is a major contributor to employment, foreign exchange earnings and tax revenues for emerging economies. Hotels and tourism generate economic activity for small- and medium-sized businesses which supply goods and services both during construction and operations. IFC invests in hotels and tourism because of its strong development impact along the value chain for employees and the economy.

Sri Lanka is a priority country for IFC. IFC’s committed portfolio in Sri Lanka covers projects across a range of sectors, including infrastructure, tourism, renewable energy, finance and healthcare. IFC also provides advisory services to promote sustainable growth among small and medium enterprises by facilitating access to finance and by offering capacity-building and training opportunities.

Melwa Hotels and Resorts Ltd. is a subsidiary of the Sri Lankan Steel Manufacturer Melwire Rolling Ltd. The hotel project is a diversification by the Pillai family to boost tourism in Sri Lanka. Melwa Hotels has tied up with Hilton as the operator, bringing world-class international chain experience to important tourist locations in Sri Lanka. The parent company, Melwire Rolling Ltd., is the largest steel manufacturer in Sri Lanka with the highest market share in the industry. For more information visit http://melwire.com.

IFC—a sister organisation of the World Bank and a member of the World Bank Group—is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. It works with more than 2,000 businesses worldwide, using its capital, expertise and influence to create markets and opportunities in the toughest areas of the world. 

In FY17, IFC delivered a record $ 19.3 billion in long-term financing for developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to help end poverty and boost shared prosperity. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.