Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa has questioned the government’s decision to suddenly increase the visa fee of foreign tourists at a time when the country’s tourism industry was blooming with an influx of tourists.

MP Premadasa revealed that service and additional charges for SAARC countries have been increased from US$ 20 to US$ 30 resulting in the total fee surpassing US$ 58.

He further said service and additional charges for non-SAARC countries have been increased from US$ 50 to US$ 75 resulting in the total fee amounting to over US$ 100.

Stating that this move has affected the progressing tourism industry, he pointed out that plans for nearly 800 Russian tourists to be brought to Sri Lanka per week via Red Wings Airline have also been halted.

The Opposition Leader questioned whether a scientific analysis was done before making such impractical decisions.

At a time when countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Maldives, and Bali have provided visa concessions or waived visa fees, Sri Lanka is looking to charge over US$ 100, which he claimed was a foolish move.

MP Sajith Premadasa made the remarks while participating in the 159 phase of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s smart classroom donation programme at a school in Maharagama today.