Press briefing of Cabinet Decision taken on 2024-02-19 (Subject to Confirmation at the next Meeting)

Promotion of Maritime Passenger Transport between Sri Lanka and India

- It has been identified that it is possible to promote tourism; and cultural exchange through improved connectivity, and encourage cooperation in the fields of education, religious, cultural activities, arts, sports, etc. by providing more access to the tourists in Sri Lanka and India with the promotion of maritime passenger transport between the two countries. For the purpose, it is essential to introduce a lower traveling and transportation cost system, accordingly, the proposal made by the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation to reduce the embarkation levy being charged from the passengers who are leaving from Sri Lanka by ferries or cruises to US$ 05 and US$ 20 respectively and to grant a free baggage allowance up to 60 kg to a passenger traveling by ferries, was approved by the Cabinet.