Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Guangzhou participated in the annual Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF) from 21-23 February 2019 and the Tourism Roadshow in Xiamen on 25 February 2019.
Started in 1993 the GITF is considered one of the most important B2B and B2C travel fairs in southern China, focusing on inbound and outbound travel. Sri Lanka had been chosen as the ‘guest country’ at the Fair this year, for the second time, since 2016, which complements the current status that it holds as the best travel destination in 2019.
This was the first time that Sri Lanka had ministerial representation at the fair, with the attendance of the State Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife and Christian Affairs, Ranjith Aluvihare, as the leader of the delegation. Representatives from 15 prominent Sri Lankan travel companies also participated in with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
China is Sri Lanka’s second biggest tourist market, and last year, 265,965 Chinese tourists arrived in Sri Lanka.
State Minister Aluvihare in his speech reiterated the unparalleled natural resources, wildlife, the unique cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and her warm and friendly people. Being the number one travel destination this year means that Sri Lanka will witness a tremendous growth in tourists visiting the island in the years to come, the Minister added.
The Minister also gave an interview to the Silk Road Post, where he revealed the breathtaking natural beauty of the country and welcomed travel agents, tour operators and others to visit Sri Lanka.
The buyer’s night, in the evening witnessed tourism related programmes and entertainment.
This year's, GITF hosted 1042 exhibitors from 55 countries and regions. A large number of professional visitors amounting to 39,766 and 182,000 public visitors attended the fair.
The Tourism Roadshow in Xiamen on 25 February 2019 showcased Sri Lankan cultural dances performed by the Sri Lanka Army dance troupe. The roadshow provided a platform for B2B meetings between Sri Lankan travel companies and local counterparts, which was a success.
Sri Lanka's Consul General in Guangzhou Priyangika Dharmasena, in her speech highlighted the significance of tourism fairs, exhibitions and roadshows, which contribute to the enhancement of tourism in the country. She said that they should continue and be taken to other provinces and cities in China.
In the media interviews with the Consul General, at the GITF and the Tourism Roadshow, she provided information on the places to visit in Sri Lanka, tourist visa procedures and flight information.
