The State of Bahia is the seventh largest regional Economy of Brazil whose GDP is estimated to be over USD 95 billion.

General Jagath Jayasuriya, Sri Lankan Ambassador in Brazil and his team had an exclusive meeting with Rui Costa, Governor of Bahia and the key officials of the State Government where discussions were held on ways and means to enhance bilateral relations especially in the sphere of trade and industry.

The Governor emphasized the importance of exchange of tourism delegations in order to exploit the untapped potential in the industry. “As an initial step, I wish to visit Sri Lanka with the leaders of tourism industry of Bahia and we would indeed be happy to receive such delegations from Sri Lanka also” said the Governor Costa. Ambassador Jayasuriya said that Sri Lanka tourism witnessed a robust growth after the defeat of LTTE terrorist group in 2009. “We had over two million tourists in 2016 - but only 1,400 from Brazil. This is due to lack of awareness” said Ambassador Jayasuriya. He further said that several Sri Lankan tour companies would participate in ABAV International Tourism show to be held in September in Sao Paulo.

The main product promotional program which was held at Hotel São Salvador was attended by over 30 identified leading businessmen based in Salvador.