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The MoU signing was attended by SLTDA Chairman Priantha Fernando and MDF Sri Lanka Country Director Maryam Piracha along with SLTDA and MDF officials including MDF Team Leader Oliver Mathieson and MDF Sri Lanka Deputy Country Director Subraja Subramaniam
In a landmark move to bolster sustainable tourism practices in Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has entered into a strategic partnership with Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF).
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aims to enhance research capabilities, diversify promotional efforts, and foster inclusive responsible tourism initiatives within the country.
SLTDA Chairman Priantha Fernando said: “This collaboration underscores our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka. By strengthening research capabilities and diversifying promotional efforts, we aim to foster a vibrant and resilient tourism sector.”
MDF Team leader Oliver Mathieson emphasised the organisation’s commitment towards supporting Sri Lanka’s sustainable tourism initiatives. “MDF Sri Lanka has been a longstanding supporter of the industry. We are pleased to continue our work with Sri Lanka’s apex tourism body, particularly in strengthening tourism research. Accurate and timely tourism data is invaluable to better marketing and promotion strategies – and increasingly important in targeting the growing segment of tourists seeking sustainable products and services,” Mathieson said.
A previous collaboration between SLTDA and MDF focused on initiatives inculcating an evidence-based decision-making culture within the tourism industry which included the development of a five-year research roadmap and supported capacity building of the research team. Building on this foundation, the new MOU underscores a commitment to further elevate Sri Lanka’s tourism sector through strategic partnerships and innovative
initiatives.