It was revealed that Sri Lanka Customs has imposed a tax of Rs. 33 million on a stock of dates donated by Saudi Arabia as a gift for the Ramadan fasting season.
The issue came to light during a media inquiry at the Cabinet press conference. Cabinet Spokesman, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, stated that the government has decided to relax taxes on dates during Ramadan. However, he clarified that since the donated stock arrived before the tax relief decision was made, customs duties were imposed.
Minister Jayatissa assured that steps are being taken to provide the necessary relief following the Cabinet decision. The 50 metric tons of dates were part of Saudi Arabia’s annual donation to Sri Lanka’s Muslim community during the holy month.
