The Sri Lanka Liquor Licensees Association has accused officials from a prominent beer manufacturing company of conspiring to obstruct the introduction of an affordable liquor bottle initiative.
In a letter addressed to President Anura Dissanayake, the association expressed concerns over attempts to undermine the program, which is aimed at making liquor more accessible to low-income consumers while curbing the sale of illicit alcohol.
The association commended the newly appointed Liquor Commissioner General for taking proactive steps to eliminate corruption and irregularities in the liquor industry. They urged the government to support the commissioner and allow him sufficient time to implement reforms effectively.
The letter also criticized certain groups for selectively opposing the commissioner’s efforts. “It is regrettable that some organizations, which remained silent during the issuance of illegal liquor licenses and the introduction of laws promoting cannabis cultivation, are now voicing criticism against the commissioner’s initiatives,” the letter stated.
The program to introduce affordable liquor bottles has sparked widespread debate, with advocates highlighting its potential to reduce the consumption of unsafe, illegal alcohol. However, detractors argue that it could harm the profits of established players in the beer and spirits industry.
The Liquor Licensees Association has called for transparency and fairness in addressing these challenges, urging the authorities to ensure that vested interests do not derail reforms aimed at benefiting the wider public.
Further investigations into the allegations and the impact of the commissioner’s initiatives on the industry are anticipated.
