2 weeks Ago By Thilina Walpola
Excise revenue from alcohol taxation has seen a notable increase during the first quarter of this year, says Excise Commissioner General U.L. Udaya Kumara Perera.
He told the media that a substantial revenue of Rs. 61 billion was recorded for the first quarter of 2025. This surpasses the initial target of Rs.
42 billion set for the period. The Excise Department has launched a new countrywide strategy for 2025, aiming to achieve a total annual revenue target of Rs. 242 billion.
Commissioner General Perera explained that the department’s success in exceeding first-quarter targets was due to a focused approach on several key areas—chief among them being the intensified crackdown on the illegal alcohol trade. Illicit liquor distribution has been a longstanding issue in Sri Lanka, and addressing it has become a priority under the department’s latest operational plan. In addition to enforcement actions, the department has strengthened existing security protocols to prevent the entry of untaxed alcohol into the market.
New labeling and product identification systems, including production dates and verification codes, have also been introduced as part of this effort. He also noted that due to the lack of tax reforms for a considerable period, previously uncollected taxes have now been reassessed, leading to additional revenue gains. Commissioner General Perera emphasised the importance of motivating officers and providing them with new knowledge and technical resources, which played a crucial role in achieving these results.
The department’s annual plan for 2025 has placed increased focus on these initiatives, resulting in a successful first quarter. He also highlighted the introduction of the RAMIS (Revenue Administration Management Information System), aligned with the government’s broader digitalisation efforts, which has laid a solid foundation for more efficient service delivery and reduced corruption. Perera stressed the importance of continuing this structured approach throughout the year to maintain momentum.
He accused certain organized groups of attempting to disrupt the implementation of this plan through various means. However, the Commissioner General expressed strong confidence that, due to the absence of any political interference or support for such disruptions, the department will be able to meet its annual targets without obstruction..
