February 05, Colombo (LNW): Revenue generated from excise duties on domestically manufactured alcoholic beverages exceeded Rs. 213 billion last year, Parliament was informed today by Deputy Minister of Economic Development U.D. Nishantha Jayaweera.
Addressing the House, the Deputy Minister stated that the Excise Department collected Rs. 213.39 billion in 2024 from the sale of locally produced liquor, highlighting the sector’s continued contribution to state income. He noted that a duty of Rs. 1,832 is currently levied on a 750 ml bottle of locally produced Special Arrack.
The figures were disclosed in response to a parliamentary query raised by MP Rohitha Abeygunawardhane. According to the data presented, sales during 2024 included approximately 29.7 million bottles of 750 ml liquor, alongside 33.4 million bottles in the 375 ml category.
When questioned about the possibility of easing excise duties on locally consumed liquor, the Deputy Minister indicated that the matter remains under review, adding that the government is open to considering adjustments in line with broader economic and fiscal priorities.