Sri Lanka See Glimpse of Hope For Mattala Airport

Sri Lanka is seeking local and international investors to operate facilities at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) in the country’s deep south.

The government says it is inviting investors for a range of ventures.

Top among them are airport and cargo operations, logistics and MRO services, aircraft and space manufacturing.

Investors are also sought for resorts and hospitality, and renewable energy projects.

Manufacturing, packaging, and warehousing activities to be operated in the nearby industrial park are also invited.

Mattala Airport commenced operations in 2013 but has struggled to attract sustained international airline traffic due to low passenger demand.

However, the facility has occasionally been used for emergency landings and backup operations.

The Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka, says Mattala holds significant potential.

“MRIA’s strategic location near the Hambantota Port and major international shipping routes offers exceptional air-sea connectivity, ” the BOI said on X.

It says, the Board serves as a gateway for global trade and tourism,

Analysts says, the recent middle eastern crisis, which saw several of the regions airports getting affected may have opened an opportunity for Mattala.

The investment agency is planning a site visit and investor briefing on May 22 for prospective investors.

Hambantota Background

Mattala Airport is located in Sri Lanka’s Hambantota District in the deep south of the island.

The region is home to the Hambantota International Port, which lies close to one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.

The area is traditionally known for fishing and agriculture and serves as a gateway to the agriculturally rich Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces.

Hambantota also offers several tourism and commercial attractions.

Top among them is the popular Udawalawe National Park, the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, a large saltern industry.

Plus a strong potential for beach tourism development and also large scale industries.

For inquires contact BOI via + 94 11 2264400 or + 94 763963000