Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) launched its Online Tourism Business Licensing Service (OTBLS) in order to improve the efficiency of tourism business license issuance and renewal.
Minister of Tourism Development, Christian Religious Affairs and Lands, John Amaratunga said that with the introduction of the new service those engaged in tourism no longer need to physically visit the SLTDA in order to obtain licenses and approvals. They can now obtain these documents from the comfort of their offices. He said this new service will completely eliminate corruption and improve efficiency.
“This service will enable tourism businesses, especially the informal sector, to apply for new licenses and as well apply for renewals and make the necessary payments through bank deposits or via credit card,” he said.
“Using modern technology, we have gone a step further by introducing an electronic feedback system where applicants will receive alerts via SMS and e-mail about the status of their applications and renewals. We hope to introduce many more innovative services in the near future.
This launch marks a major milestone in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry,” the Minister said.
“At a time when the world is embracing digitalization and our own government is placing great importance on providing convenience through digitalization of government services, we hope the tourism industry will cooperate with us and help us to take tourism to the next level in the near future,” he said.