By: Isuru Parakrama
December 03, Colombo (LNW): The Excise Department has warned that it will impose strict measures, including suspending the production licences for 2025, on alcohol manufacturing companies that fail to settle their excise duty arrears.
The department announced that legal action will be initiated against three companies that have failed to clear their dues.
Out of the 23 alcohol manufacturing firms licensed for production in 2024, only three have failed to meet the deadline of November 30 for paying their excise duties.
The companies in question—W.M. Mendis & Co. Limited, Kurunegala Royal Ceylon Distilleries Private Limited, and Meegoda McCallum Brewery Limited—will face legal proceedings, with further actions determined by the outcomes of these proceedings.
In addition to these defaulters, the department is investigating non-operational entities, such as Lunuwila Globe Blenders, Wayamba Spirits Limited, and Payagala Cooperative Liquor Manufacturing Plants, to verify ownership and pursue the recovery of outstanding excise taxes.
The Department has further taken step of halting production at the Valikamam Liquor Manufacturing Plant in Vankanai, Northern Province, until all overdue excise duties are paid in full.
