Sajith alleges cigarette tax cuts cost Sri Lanka Rs. 17.3 billion

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today accused the Government of increasing the tax burden on the public while granting tax concessions to cigarette companies.

Speaking during the parliamentary debate on the economy, Premadasa said the Government’s revenue growth had largely come through higher taxation on individuals and businesses, including increases in VAT and other levies.

He claimed that while taxes on goods and services had been increased, taxes on cigarettes had been reduced, despite recommendations by the World Health Organization to maintain higher tobacco taxation.

Premadasa alleged that the reduction in cigarette taxes had resulted in a loss of approximately Rs. 17.3 billion in potential State revenue and urged the Government to reconsider the policy and use the additional income to provide relief to the public and reduce the cost of essential goods.

He also raised concerns over the impact of taxation on businesses, employment, retirees, and the broader economy. (Newswire)

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