Sri Lanka, Aug. 21 -- Sri Lanka has identified Australia as the first priority market for its new international tourism promotion campaign, targeting 150,000 Australian visitors this year by expanding promotional activities beyond the country's traditional Australian markets.

Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam said Australia was selected for the initial campaign due to its strong growth potential, high tourist spending, longer stays and improving air connectivity with Sri Lanka.

He said Australian tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka exceeded 100,000 last year, while around 70,000 Australian visitors have already arrived this year.

"We are expecting at least 150,000 Australians to travel to Sri Lanka this year," Hewa...