Sri Lanka’s tourism earnings fell 12% to $1.51 billion in the first half of 2026, increasing pressure on the country’s revised annual revenue target.
Sri Lanka tourism earnings fell 12% year on year during the first half of 2026. The country generated more than $1.51 billion, according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
Tourism revenue reached $151.1 million in June. This marked an 11% fall from the same month in 2025. June also recorded the lowest monthly tourism revenue of 2026. In contrast, January produced the strongest result.
Tourism receipts reached $413.78 million in January. Sri Lanka’s record June revenue remains $275.6 million, achieved in 2018.
Sri Lanka tourism earnings target faces pressure
The first-half result has increased pressure on the country’s revised annual tourism target. Sri Lanka must generate more than $2 billion during the second half of 2026. This would allow the country to reach its $3.5 billion revenue goal.
The Government recently reduced its tourism targets because of disruption linked to the Middle East conflict. The conflict affected regional air links and reduced visitor arrivals. As a result, officials revised both arrival and revenue forecasts.
Sri Lanka now aims to attract 2.5 million visitors during 2026. The previous target stood at three million arrivals. The Government also lowered its tourism revenue target from $4 billion to $3.5 billion.
Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, Tourism Deputy Minister, announced the revised targets during the previous week.
Ranasinghe said 2026 could still set a new record for tourist arrivals. However, growth must improve during the remaining months.
The latest tourism figures are available through the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
Asia-Pacific visitors increase daily spending
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is also seeing changes in visitor spending. Travellers from Asia-Pacific markets now contribute more daily revenue.
Indian visitors have become an important part of this trend. Their average daily spending has reached about $154. This figure exceeds Sri Lanka’s overall average of $148 per visitor per day.
Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, highlighted the change in spending patterns.
“Sometimes Indian travellers spend more than European tourists,” he said.
Visitors who choose wildlife and marine tourism spend between $160 and $170 each day, according to Hewawasam.
These spending levels point to rising demand for specialist tourism products. They also create new revenue options for local operators.The sector can increase income by expanding wildlife, marine and other high-value experiences. This approach reduces its reliance on visitor volume alone.
The decline in Sri Lanka tourism earnings highlights the scale of the second-half challenge. Revenue growth will depend on arrivals, air access and visitor spending.