Sri Lanka–China Economic Relations in Comparative Perspective: Ample Room to Grow

Abstract

The article examines recent trends in the economic relations between Sri Lanka and China focussing on trade, investment and tourism dimensions. Although bilateral economic ties between Sri Lanka and China have strengthened over time, the article demonstrates Sri Lanka’s low rank among China’s economic partners. For example, while China is the second-largest tourism partner of Sri Lanka in terms of tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka does not rank among even China’s top 25 tourist destinations.

Consequently, the article recommends certain policy priorities to ensure mutually beneficial economic relations. With regards to tourism, it recommends promoting Sri Lanka’s brand on Chinese e-tourism websites and social media, introducing user-friendly tourist apps in Chinese, strengthening air connectivity and celebrating Chinese festivals. Similarly, trade and investment could be facilitated by stronger links with Chinese cities and connecting Sri Lankan students in China to the Chinese industry via internships and building commercial networks from the ground up.

Keywords

Economic growth trade deficit string of pearls trade agreements Sri Lanka–China economic relations

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