The Sri Lanka Excise Department has reported a record revenue collection for the first quarter of the current year, significantly exceeding its targets. Commissioner General M.B.N.A. Premaratne announced that the department collected Rs. 70.4 billion by March 31st, surpassing the Rs. 61.95 billion target for the period by 13.6%. This marks a 14.8% increase compared to the first quarter of the previous year.
Last year, the department contributed Rs. 233 billion to state revenue, with an ambitious target of Rs. 245 billion set for the current year. In light of the upcoming Sinhala and Hindu New Year, all liquor outlets nationwide will be closed on April 13th and 14th. During this period, special operations will be conducted to crack down on illegal liquor sales and violations of excise regulations, with the public encouraged to report information via 1913. The Commissioner General also noted ongoing discussions regarding potential reductions in liquor prices, following public requests.