There is growing concern across Sri Lanka over the discriminatory treatment of local tourists by certain hospitality service providers. Increasing numbers of complaints have been lodged with relevant authorities, particularly from well-known tourist destinations such as Ella in the Uva Province and several southern coastal towns. Local visitors report experiencing unequal service and preferential treatment given to foreign tourists, especially during peak travel seasons.
Many locals say they are discouraged or denied access to services such as accommodation and dining, as some businesses prioritize foreign clientele due to higher profit margins. This trend has become more evident as Sri Lanka experiences a significant increase in tourist arrivals, with popular locations currently seeing a high presence of international visitors.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe, acknowledged the issue, confirming that complaints—particularly from Ella—have reached the Ministry. However, he noted a lack of authority to take action against businesses not registered with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
“We are only empowered to act against establishments registered with the SLTDA. Unfortunately, if a complaint involves an unregistered hotel or restaurant, we are limited in what we can do, even if their actions are clearly discriminatory,” he said. “This kind of behaviour tends to increase during peak seasons, when service providers focus more on foreign customers, likely for economic reasons. However, it remains unlawful to discriminate against locals.”
In addition to these concerns, immigration authorities have also reported that some foreign nationals—mainly from Russia, Ukraine, and Israel—have been found engaging in business activities while in the country on tourist visas. As a result, efforts are underway to identify and deport those violating visa conditions.
Meanwhile, a related matter was raised in Parliament regarding the operation of Jewish religious centres catering to Israeli visitors. Opposition MP Mujibur Rahman questioned the presence of such centres, particularly in Ella, and raised concerns about the potential involvement of Israeli intelligence agency Mossad in attempting to influence local communities and create divisions among ethnic groups.
Responding to these concerns, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Professor Sunil Senevi confirmed the existence of four such centres in Ella, Pottuvil, Weligama, and Colombo. He stated that only two are officially registered under the Companies Act, and that the Ella centre offers both religious and financial services to Israeli nationals. He emphasized that the government has a responsibility to ensure the safety and protection of all foreign nationals in Sri Lanka.
The situation has prompted fresh discussions around regulation, fair access, and national security, with calls for stronger oversight of the tourism industry and a renewed focus on ensuring that Sri Lankan citizens are treated equally in their own country.
