Category: Daily Financial Times

Muslim-friendly tourism or Halal Tourism concern it is indeed emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments in the global travel industry, projected to reach $410 billion by 2032. With international Muslim tourist arrivals expected to hit 230 million by 2028, destinations worldwide are enhancing their offerings to meet the unique needs of Muslim travellers.

Muslim Friendly tourism-also known as halal-friendly tourism-caters to Muslim travellers by providing services aligned with Islamic principles which includes, Halal-certified dining options, Prayer facilities in hotels, airports, attractions, Alcohol- and gambling-free environments, Family-friendly and private travel arrangements The sector is expanding rapidly, driven by demand for inclusive, culturally respectful travel experiences.

One of the key Destinations for Halal Tourism is Malaysia, which is widely regarded as the leader in halal tourism, with extensive halal-certified hotels, restaurants, and attractions also Indonesia where the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, offering diverse halal-certified facilities and rich Islamic heritage sites and also Turkey gives a blend of history and culture, increasingly popular for its halal-friendly accommodations and services.

Trends driving future growth of this segment according to the Mastercard -Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index 2025, international Muslim travellers numbered 176 million in 2024, with projections to surpass 240 million by 2030. Key trends include: Smart travel tools for locating halal services, Digital platforms for seamless halal-friendly bookings, Wellness and inclusivity integrated into travel experiences. Islamic Friendly tourism is no longer a niche-it is becoming a mainstream force shaping the future of global travel.

Islamic friendly tours in Sri Lanka

According to the Mastercard -Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index 2025, international Muslim travellers numbered 176 million in 2024, with projections to surpass 240 million by 2030

Sri Lanka is increasingly recognised as a Muslim -friendly destination, offering tailored tours that respect Islamic values specially attracting the Malaysian Travellers. Malaysia is concern around 25 to 27 million international visitors travel to Malaysia each year. Having projected population of Malaysia in 2026 is to be approximately 36 million. Approximately 35% of Malaysian travellers went out of the country for overnight holiday trips, with 69% planning to travel abroad. The most popular destinations included Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea and in this regard Sri Lanka will become key potential destination improving the key features such as:

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra met with EU Special Envoy for the Indo-Pacific Maria Castillo Fernandez during her official visit to Sri Lanka.

What began as a shipping disruption in one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints has become a wider development risk.

Since early March, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has alerted that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are hitting far more than energy markets. The Strait carries around one quarter of global seaborne oil trade, as well as significant volumes of liquefied natural gas and fertilisers – goods that feed directly into transport costs, food production and inflation.

The disruption deepened rapidly. Ship transits through the Strait fell by about 95%, while oil and gas prices, tanker freight rates, marine fuel costs and war-risk insurance premiums rose sharply. By 1 April, UNCTAD warned that the shock was feeding through trade, prices and finance, with developing economies facing weaker currencies, falling stock prices and rising external borrowing costs.

The impact has also moved from gas to grain. UNCTAD’s analysis shows that energy and fertiliser disruptions are increasing risks to food production, supply and prices, especially for countries already exposed to high import bills, debt pressures and limited fiscal space.

To help track these risks, UNCTAD is launching the Strait of Hormuz dashboard. The platform brings together regularly updated indicators on shipping, food, energy and finance, helping users monitor how shocks are evolving and compare them with past crises such as COVID-19 and the supply disruptions following the start of the war in Ukraine.

The dashboard is designed to show not only individual pressures, but how they can reinforce one another. Higher energy costs can raise fertiliser and food prices. Higher transport costs can push up import bills. Tighter financial conditions can reduce countries’ ability to respond.

UNCTAD’s latest Global Trade Update shows why this matters now: global trade entered 2026 with momentum, but rising fragility – including geopolitical uncertainty, inflationary pressures and higher trade costs – is weighing on developing economies’ prospects for investment, demand and development.

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) launched a strategy to take the best of Sri Lanka to the world as South Asia’s tallest self-supported structure, the Colombo Lotus Tower, was adorned with HSBC branding Friday night in a sign of the bank repositioning its Wholesale Banking following the sale of its Retail Banking portfolio in Sri Lanka.

New Zealander Finn Allen hit a brutal 47-ball century to lead Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a dominant eight-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals and boost his side’s unlikely push towards the Indian Premier League (IPL) play-offs.

By hitting the winning runs with a six, Allen finished exactly 100 not out as KKR completed a chase of 143 with 5.4 overs to spare. He had 20 from 17 balls and, having been dropped on 42 by Tristan Stubbs, was on 45 from 31.

At that stage KKR were 75-2 after 10 overs but Allen, who scored a 33-ball hundred in this year’s T20 World Cup semi-final, hit eight of his remaining 16 balls for six. 55 of KKR’s remaining 72 runs came off his bat, while the right-hander also scored 83 runs in an unbroken stand of 116 with Australia Cameron Green, who finished 33 not out.

Allen is only the fourth KKR player to score an IPL century, following West Indian Sunil Narine, India’s Venkatesh Iyer, and fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum.

Delhi, meanwhile, were strangely meek with the bat.

They were 74-1 in the eighth over but stumbled to 142-8, taking only 11 runs in five overs from the 12th to 16th despite not losing a wicket.

Delhi drop to eighth in the table on eight points and are struggling to make the play-offs with three games to go.

KKR were winless across their first six matches but have now won four in a row.

They have nine points in seventh – three fewer than Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals, and Gujarat Titans who are third, fourth, and fifth, respectively.

Zahira College on Saturday produced one of the biggest upsets in recent schools rugby history when they edged out Royal College 29/26 in their Dialog Schools Under-19 Rugby League 2026 encounter played at the Royal Sports Complex.

The famous victory ended a 63-year wait for Zahira, whose last triumph over Royal came in 1963 under the leadership of double international Ibrahim Hamid.

One of the oldest rugby-playing schools in Sri Lanka, Zahira first introduced the sport in 1920 and this memorable triumph added another proud chapter to their rich rugby tradition. The visitors displayed tremendous courage, discipline, and attacking flair to stun the more fancied Royal outfit.

Further, they continued their winning streak in their three outings.

Zahira drew first blood when centre Farhan Fazlath crossed over for an unconverted try in the third minute of the game. They continued to dominate proceedings with their no. 8 Manzil Samath powering through the Royal defence in the 13th minute for their second try. Flanker Saifullah Zulfiqar added the conversion as Zahira stretched their advantage to 12-0.

Royal gradually settled into the game and centre Hiruka Jayanidu responded with an unconverted try in the 20th minute to reduce the deficit to seven points. Royal was in major trouble when their skipper and no. 8 Disas Pathirana was given a yellow card in the 30th minute of the game, which disrupted their progress in leadership.

At the short breather, the lads from Maradana led 12/5.

After the turnaround, Royal came back strongly, with winger Kavan Ekanayake touching down to level the scores at 12-all. But Zahira answered in stunning fashion, defending bravely before launching a devastating scoring burst.

Zulfiqar scored first before scrum-half Afham Abdeen sliced through the Royal defence twice within minutes to hand Zahira a commanding 29-12 lead after Zulfiqar added the conversion. Royal fought back through Dinuka Perera and Praveen Nimsara, while Shimak Shafeek converted both tries to cut the gap to three points.

Royal thought they had snatched victory in the dying moments when Dinuka Perera sprinted over the line, but the effort was ruled out after he stepped into touch. It was referee Charani Liyanage, spot on with her decision to call that the Reid Avenue player’s leg touched the line.

Zahira Head Coach is former Rajans, Kandy SC, and National rugby player Radhika Hettiarachchi.

In other matches

Defending League champions Trinity too continued their winning streak when they handed off Kandy Sri Sumangala 39/0 at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium.

At the short breather, Trinity led 19/0.

Trinity crossed the visitors’ line on seven occasions while converting two of them. They will meet DS Senanayake College in their next encounter, with the venue yet to be decided due to the hosting rights taken out of DS.

At Pallekele, the Antonians registered their first win this season when they edged out DS Senanayake College 21/19.

At the short breather, the lads from Katugastota led 7/0.

Joes ran riot at Ratmalana in a second-half burst to outclass Mahanama 41/25.

At the short breather, Joes led 24/6.

Wesley, too, continued their winning streak when they went past Ananda 36/18 at the Ananda College Ground in Rajagiriya.

At the short breather, the Double Blues led 21/10.

Thurstan continued their good running rugby when they edged out Kingswood 25/21 at the Sugathadasa Stadium last weekend.

At the short breather, Thurstan led 15/7.

In Mount Lavinia, the Thomians outclassed Science 41/13 last weekend. The Thomians, returning to winning ways from their last weekend encounter against Kingswood in Central Hills, led 10/8 at the short breather.

Riding on the exceptional success of its rapidly expanding franchise network, Remarko Bakers and Caterers has entered into a strategic partnership with Orzone Mineral Water Exports Ltd., further reinforcing its commitment to building strong, homegrown Sri Lankan brands.

Following the successful rollout of over 25 Remarko franchise outlets within just two months, the brand continues its growth momentum by aligning with Orzone Mineral Water Exports, Sri Lanka’s pioneering manufacturer and exporter of natural bottled drinking water.

Founded in 1995, Orzone is widely recognised as a trailblazer in the local bottled water industry and a formidable player in international markets.

Orzone Mineral Water bottles over 30 million litres annually and exports to key global destinations including Japan, Australia, and the Maldives, supported by a robust distribution network of over 25 independent distributors covering all provinces in Sri Lanka.

The company has also been recognised as one of the Top 10 Food and Beverage Exporters in Sri Lanka by the Export Development Board in 2011 and has earned multiple entrepreneurship awards over the years.

Remarko Bakers and Caterers, with a legacy spanning over four decades, was founded in 1983 by Riencey Withanage, a renowned entrepreneur, international chef, and Vice President of the All Ceylon Bakery Owners Association. Holding a bakery degree from ABS, Withanage is widely respected for creating unique recipes while consistently maintaining superior quality standards. Under his leadership of over 25 years, Remarko has evolved into a trusted bakery and catering brand, known for innovation, freshness, and entrepreneurial empowerment through franchising.

Remarko Chief Marketing Officer Hashan Haputhanthri said: ‘Growing with the Orzone brand is indeed a privilege. Their strong entrepreneurial foundation and international credibility perfectly align with Remarko’s vision. Remarko and Orzone standing together reflects a shared Sri Lankan legacy of creating homegrown products-for us and for the world.’

Orzone Mineral Water Exports is led by Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Upul B. Senarath, whose visionary leadership has shaped the company into an award winning export brand. Established in 1994, the group also operates Ackzorne Lanka Ltd, which manufactures PET bottles and caps, ensuring vertical integration and consistent quality. With the committed involvement of Board Directors Aruna S. Senarath and Neal N. Senarath, working closely with the founder, Orzone has made a significant impact in delivering a globally respected Sri Lankan brand.

This strategic tie-up brings together two organisations driven by strong entrepreneurial cultures, shared values, and a unified purpose-to strengthen Sri Lanka’s economy while delivering trusted, high-quality products to consumers.

Orzone Mineral Water will now stand with Remarko as its official mineral water partner across the Remarko franchise network, further enhancing product quality, consistency, and consumer confidence.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay yesterday outlined the priorities of his newly-formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Government, pledging transparency, and accountability in the use of public funds, stronger law enforcement, and a governance structure free of competing power centres.

According to The Hindu, Vijay addressed thousands of supporters at Chennai’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium shortly after taking oath as Chief Minister, departing from traditional post-swearing-in protocol.

The actor-turned-politician said his administration would not compromise on the safety of women and would intensify action against drug-related offences while ensuring the delivery of basic public services.

‘There is only one power centre. That centre is headed by me,’ Vijay said, adding that no parallel centres of authority would be allowed within the administration.

He also stressed that public funds would be managed with accountability and warned members of his Government against corruption or misconduct.

‘You all know that I don’t need it. Your Vijay will not make mistakes. Nor will he allow others to make mistakes,’ he said.

Vijay further announced plans to release a White Paper on Tamil Nadu’s finances, claiming the State carried debt of nearly Indian rupees 10 lakh crore.

The new Chief Minister said the TVK Government would focus on the welfare of women, youth, farmers, teachers, Government employees, workers and fishing communities, while also assuring protection for minority groups.

Positioning himself as an outsider to political dynasties, Vijay said he understood poverty and hardship from personal experience.

‘I’m not from a royal family. I’m just like you all,’ he told supporters.

Vijay also thanked coalition partners and supporters, including Congress and Left parties, and described the formation of the new administration as ‘a new beginning’ and ‘a new era of real secular social justice.’

World number one Aryna Sabalenka suffered a second defeat in three matches as she was beaten by Sorana Cirstea in the Italian Open third round.

The Belarusian missed six match points in a quarter-final loss to Hailey Baptiste at the Madrid Open on 28 April in what was just her second defeat of the year.

And just 11 days later, Sabalenka’s French Open preparations suffered a further blow with a 2-6 6-3 7-5 defeat by Romania’s 27th-ranked Cirstea.

It is Sabalenka’s earliest loss since the Dubai Championships in February 2025, and ends her streak of making the quarter-finals or better for 17 tournaments in a row.

The 28-year-old took a medical time-out late in the third set in Rome for treatment on her lower back, but she was below her best for much of the match.

The loss means Sabalenka will go into this month’s French Open with four wins and two losses on the clay.

ITB China 2026 will take place from 26-28 May 2026 at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre.

This year’s edition is fully sold out, with exhibition space increasing by 20% compared to 2025. Over 900 travel organisations from 85 countries and regions will participate, alongside 1,700 key buyers, generating over 46,000 pre-scheduled business meetings. The strong growth underscores strong global demand and reinforces China’s role as a key driver of the international travel industry.

In parallel, the ITB China Conference will host more than 70 sessions across seven thematic tracks, bringing together over 180 industry experts from around the world. The programme will focus on key developments in China’s travel market and the global tourism landscape, offering high-level insights, case studies and practical perspectives.

As global tourism continues to evolve, China’s travel industry is entering a new phase of deeper and more extensive international collaboration.

The show will welcome more than 900 exhibiting companies from 85 countries and regions, reflecting broad international participation from both established and emerging destinations and growing geographic diversity.

Asia leads regional growth with a 40% increase, driven by strong participation from Malaysia, including Sarawak and Malaysia Airlines, with more than 60 companies in total. Trkiye records growth of 93%, presenting nearly 40 partners, including key regions such as Cappadocia and Trabzon.

The Americas and Caribbean grow by 26%, with destinations including Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Colombia, the Bahamas, Mexico, Cuba, as well as Buenos Aires, California and Los Angeles. Europe grows steadily by 20%, with expanded participation from Italy, Portugal, Spain and Greece alongside destination offices from multiple countries and strong representation from the European Travel Commission.

Africa grows by 11%, led by Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, the Côte d’Ivoire National Tourism Boards, and the Ethiopian Airlines Group. The Middle East strengthens its presence with high-quality tourism offerings from Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Emirates Airlines.

ITB China 2026 is expected to welcome 1,700 hosted buyers from mainland China, as well as Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. Among them, 34% focus on customised and luxury travel, while 25% specialise in MICE and business travel, reflecting strong demand for premium segments. Buyers from 27 countries and regions will account for 10%, reflecting the growing momentum of China’s inbound travel market.