By: Isuru Parakrama
July 24, Colombo (LNW): The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has firmly reiterated that businesses across the country are prohibited from imposing additional fees on customers who choose to pay using debit or credit cards.
This includes commonly seen surcharges such as a 2.5 per cent fee, which some merchants have reportedly been levying in recent months.
In a detailed clarification, the Central Bank emphasised that the terms agreed upon when merchants acquire card payment terminals from banks clearly prohibit the transfer of any processing fees to customers.
These agreements are designed to ensure fair pricing practices and to encourage the use of digital payment methods across the economy.
An official from the Central Bank advised that if a merchant attempts to add any extra charge beyond the displayed or agreed price for card-based payments, consumers should immediately notify the bank that issued their card. The official urged the public to be vigilant and to play an active role in upholding consumer rights.
This announcement comes in the wake of a growing number of public complaints, particularly on social media, highlighting instances where shops and service providers have added unauthorised charges to the final bill under the guise of card processing fees.
These actions, though increasingly common, remain entirely outside the bounds of legal and contractual standards.
Authorities have warned that businesses found violating these terms may face penalties or other regulatory consequences. The Central Bank also reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the public is not unfairly burdened for opting to use electronic payment methods—a move the government has otherwise been actively encouraging to reduce cash dependency.
