Sri Lanka Launches Tourism Leakage Study to Track Where Visitor Spending Truly Goes

Data-driven insights set to shape a fairer future for Sri Lanka’s tourism economy

Sri Lanka is preparing to roll out a nationwide tourism leakage study aimed at identifying how much visitor spending actually stays within the country. Scheduled to commence at the end of January 2026, the initiative will be led by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority and will focus on key destinations including Colombo, Kandy, and Galle.

The study is designed to analyse spending patterns, business ownership structures, and supply chains to determine where revenue exits the local economy. Findings are expected to guide future policy decisions and strengthen support for Sri Lankan-owned enterprises.

With average daily tourist spending recently revised, the survey will help policymakers better understand how tourism income circulates locally. From boutique stays like Ona Garden Villa to broader and many Galle hotel offers, insights from this research may influence how tourism products are developed and promoted.

Officials say the initiative marks an important step towards building a more sustainable and locally beneficial tourism sector.