Excise Commissioner General Udaya Kumara Perera has revealed that the country’s excise revenue has dropped by approximately 30% due to the widespread issue of illegal liquor. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy that combines enforcement with alternative solutions to address this issue.
In this regard, Perera stated that discussions are underway with the Ministry of Finance to introduce a new type of quality liquor that will be sold at an affordable price to the public. This initiative aims to provide a legitimate and cost-effective alternative to illegal alcohol, which has been harming both public health and the excise revenue.
The proposed new liquor will undergo approval from the Department of Assay and Quality Control before it is released to the market. Perera clarified that the introduction of this product is not intended to boost excise revenue or promote alcohol consumption but rather to safeguard public welfare by offering a safer, regulated alternative to illicit alcohol.
This initiative marks a step toward addressing the long-standing issues caused by illegal liquor while aiming to protect both the economy and public health.
