Vietnam’s leading low-cost airline, VietJet, has commenced direct flight operations between Colombo and Ho Chi Minh City, strengthening air connectivity between Sri Lanka and Vietnam while creating new opportunities for tourism, trade and investment.
The inaugural service, which began on July 18, is expected to support increased travel between the two countries by offering greater convenience for both leisure and business travellers.
Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath welcomed VietJet’s entry into the Sri Lankan market, expressing confidence in the airline’s prospects. He said the launch of the direct route was among the key outcomes of discussions between the Heads of State of Sri Lanka and Vietnam during bilateral engagements last year.
The Minister highlighted the potential of the new connection to further strengthen tourism ties between the two countries. Sri Lanka and Vietnam are jointly working on new travel packages aimed at increasing visitor arrivals, with particular attention to religious tourism as well as cultural, health and adventure tourism.
According to the Minister, the initiative will build on the longstanding religious and cultural links between Sri Lanka and Vietnam while creating additional opportunities for businesses and stakeholders across the tourism industry.
VietJet will operate three weekly flights between Colombo and Ho Chi Minh City, with services scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
The new route will also offer Sri Lankan passengers access to a wider network of destinations, with Ho Chi Minh City serving as one of VietJet’s key aviation hubs. From there, travellers can connect to destinations across Vietnam, East Asia, Southeast Asia and Australia.
The new service is expected to further strengthen Sri Lanka’s international air connectivity while providing passengers with greater choice and convenience for both inbound and outbound travel.
FACETS 2027 to Showcase Sri Lanka’s Gem Heritage and Expand Global Trade Opportunities
The 34th edition of FACETS Sri Lanka, the country’s premier international gem and jewellery exhibition, is scheduled to take place from January 4 to 6, 2027, at Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams, with organisers seeking to further enhance Sri Lanka’s reputation as a leading global source of coloured gemstones.
At the official launch of FACETS 2027, Chairman of the FACETS Organising Committee Shezmin Mansoor said the exhibition has grown over more than three decades into an internationally recognised platform that brings together Sri Lanka’s rich gem heritage with innovation and global business opportunities.
“FACETS has become much more than an exhibition. It is the global meeting place where the world discovers the extraordinary beauty of Sri Lankan gemstones,” he said.
Mansoor highlighted Sri Lanka’s reputation for its celebrated Ceylon Sapphires as well as more than 50 varieties of coloured gemstones found in the country. These gems continue to attract international collectors, jewellery houses, designers and buyers.
He said Sri Lanka’s competitive advantage extends beyond its natural resources, with the expertise and craftsmanship of local miners, cutters, lapidarists, jewellers, exporters and entrepreneurs playing a key role in establishing the country’s position in the international gemstone trade.
FACETS 2027 will be held under the theme, “The Internal Work of Sapphire – Where Nature’s Secret Becomes Its Signature,” celebrating the distinctive natural inclusions found within Sri Lankan sapphires and the unique characteristics they develop over millions of years.
According to Mansoor, the exhibition will present an immersive “mine-to-market” experience, taking visitors through the complete gemstone journey while placing emphasis on ethical sourcing, sustainability, innovation and high-quality craftsmanship.
The event is expected to bring together international buyers, trade delegations, exhibitors, designers and industry leaders, providing a platform to expand commercial relationships and further establish Sri Lanka as a trusted destination for gemstones and jewellery.
Mansoor also expressed appreciation to government institutions, industry partners, sponsors, exhibitors and members of the organising committee for their continued contribution to the event. He further recognised the role of the media in raising international awareness of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery sector.
VietJet Introduces Direct Flights Linking Colombo and Ho Chi Minh City
