In his Budget address today, Minister Mangala Samarweera stated that a Tourism Board approved program named ‘Tuk-Tuk’ will be launched in 2018 to provide tourists with trained, reliable and pleasant three-wheeler drivers.
Furthermore a three-wheeler regulatory authority where drivers will be trained free-of-charge will also be established.
Minister Samarweera stated that the tourism industry remains one of the most lucrative ventures for the island nation.
He stated that the government will enforce several concessions for the tourism industry including the reduction of import tax on certain food and beverages.
It was also mentioned that credit facilities to people who want to upgrade their homes to keep tourists as a home stay will be provided. Further, a tax of 1% will be imposed on commissions charged by online travel agents.
