Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Joins GovPay to Power Digital Transformation in Tourism

In a groundbreaking initiative to modernize Sri Lanka’s tourism industry through digitalization, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has joined GovPay – the government’s digital payment platform. This integration enables seamless, secure, and hassle-free online payments for a wide range of SLTDA services, offering greater convenience to stakeholders across the tourism ecosystem.

As one of the country’s most vital industries, tourism lies at the heart of Sri Lanka’s economic revival. By embracing GovPay, SLTDA aims to streamline processes, reduce administrative hurdles, and create a more transparent and efficient business environment – further supporting the Government’s vision of positioning Sri Lanka as a world-class tourist destination powered by digital innovation.

Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of SLTDA, said: "The launch of GovPay is a testament to our commitment to digital transformation and improving public services. By integrating with this platform, we expect a significant boost in efficiency across tourism-related transactions, making Sri Lanka an even more attractive destination for investors and visitors alike."

The initiative also aligns with the Government’s broader vision of creating a digitally inclusive society. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy and Chairperson of ICTA, said: "I would like to congratulate the Chairman and Team of SLTDA, as they take this bold step towards cashless operations by connecting to the GovPay platform. GovPay is a pivotal Digital Infrastructure, based on which Government Institutions will transform their transaction Interface with citizens and businesses. It is truly rewarding for the teams at LankaPay and ICTA to receive the enthusiastic support and commitment of institutions such as the SLTDA in growing the impact and reach of this pan-government platform"

The initial rollout with SLTDA will focus on services linked to the Tourism Development Levy, with a phased expansion planned to include other payments. This collaborative effort among SLTDA, ICTA, and LankaPay demonstrates how public and private sector partnerships can deliver tangible benefits, advancing Sri Lanka’s digital economy while strengthening its tourism sector.

The head table at the inauguration included Hon. Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, Deputy Minister of Tourism; Hon. Eng. Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy; Mr. Harsha Purasinghe, Board Director of ICTA; Mr. Channa de Silva, CEO of LankaPay; Mr. Udana Wickramasinghe, Director of Research & International Relations, SLTDA; and Ms. Malkanthi Rajapaksha, Director General of SLTDA, alongside Chairman Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam.