September 29, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (29).
A few showers may occur in North western province.
Showers or thundershowers are likely at a few places in Uva province and in Ampara district after 2.00 p.m.
Fairly strong winds of about (35-45) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central, North-western, and Central provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle.
Winds:
Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.
Wind speed can increase up to (50-60) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota and from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar.
Wind speed can increase up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota and from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar will be rough at times.
The sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee will be fairly rough at times.
Naval and fishing communities are requested to be vigilant in this regard.
Several spells of showers to occur in select districts (Sep 29)
BYD Scandal & Cross-Border Tax Dodge: John Keels Took Nepalese Chaudhary’s Bait All Along?
By: A Special Correspondent
September 29, Colombo (LNW): Serious allegations have surfaced involving the importation of BYD electric vehicles into Sri Lanka, with claims that vehicle engine capacities were deliberately understated to avoid paying the full tax. The case remains ongoing in court.
The local importer of the vehicles in question is John Keells CG Auto (Pvt) Ltd, a joint venture between Sri Lanka’s conglomerate John Keells and Nepalese automotive firm CG Motors. CG Motors is a subsidiary of the Chaudhary Group, owned by Binod Chaudhary, Nepal’s wealthiest individual and its only dollar billionaire.
Dodging Duties by Adding a Seat?
CG Motors has also been embroiled in tax evasion controversies in Nepal. In a striking example reported by Nepalese media, the company allegedly manipulated vehicle classifications to drastically reduce import duties.
Under Nepalese law:
* A 14-seater microbus is taxed at 10 per cent.
* A 15-seater or larger minibus pays just 1 per cent duty.
On September 15, 2023, CG Motors imported 30 King Long XMQ 6520 (14-seater) microbuses from Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co. Ltd., China, and paid the standard 10 per cent duty under HS Code 8702.40.30.
However, on April 04 2024, they imported 50 more microbuses of the same model, this time adding an extra seat and classifying them under HS Code 8702.40.20 as 15-seaters, thus paying only 1 per cent duty.
According to Nepal’s Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act (1993), a minibus must meet specific technical criteria—seat dimensions, vehicle weight, and interior height, among others. The King Long XMQ 6520 reportedly does not satisfy these requirements, even with an extra (often folding) seat.
Investigations have uncovered that CG Motors may have committed tax fraud totalling over NPR 1.45 million, including customs duties, excise taxes, VAT, and road maintenance fees.
This is not the first such case involving CG Motors. The company had previously faced legal action over underreported specifications on KYC electric vans and was found guilty by Nepali courts, being ordered to repay the defrauded taxes.
From Kathmandu to Colombo: Is John Keells Involved?
The controversy has now reached Sri Lanka.
John Keells CG Auto (Pvt) Ltd and its Nepalese partner CG Motors are accused of understating the motor capacity of imported BYD electric vehicles—from 150 kW to 100 kW—thereby avoiding higher import duties. While Sri Lanka Customs initially accepted the declared 100 kW figure, the importer argued that the reduction was legitimate, citing firmware modifications by the manufacturer.
Sri Lanka Customs responded by appointing a technical expert committee to verify the true motor output. The committee’s report is still pending submission to court. In the meantime, the court allowed the release of around 1,500 BYD vehicles, secured against bank guarantees worth LKR 4.5 billion.
The tax differential between a 100 kW and 150 kW vehicle is approximately LKR 3 million. If even 1,000 vehicles were misclassified, this could mean a loss of LKR 3 billion to the state. Reports suggest that over 2,500 BYD ATTO 3 models alone have already been imported and sold in Sri Lanka, implying potential tax losses exceeding LKR 7.5 billion for that model alone.
Sources further indicate that other BYD models may also have been misdeclared in a similar manner, which could increase the scale of the tax fraud significantly.
Collusion or Deception?
What remains unclear is whether John Keells was deceived by CG Motors, or if the two entities knowingly collaborated to exploit legal loopholes and deprive the Sri Lankan state of billions in tax revenue.
Given CG Motors’ history of tax evasion in Nepal, it raises concerns that such schemes may now be expanding regionally—potentially turning Sri Lanka into a new hub for these practices.
If the allegations are true, this would not just be a matter of business ethics, but a major national issue. The loss of billions in tax revenue is especially troubling in a country grappling with poverty and economic recovery. The question now is whether powerful billionaires—both local and foreign—are being allowed to skirt the tax net, creating unfair monopolies at the public’s expense.
The unfolding investigation into John Keells CG Auto and CG Motors reveals what could be a multi-billion-rupee tax evasion scandal involving misclassified electric vehicle imports. While the courts are yet to deliver a final verdict, the stakes are high—not just in terms of financial loss, but also in terms of public trust, corporate accountability, and the integrity of regional trade practices.
Sri Lanka must now decide: Will it allow billionaires to bypass its tax system—or ensure justice is served, no matter how powerful the players involved?
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The Exporters’ Concerns Over the Abolishment of SVAT
Understanding the Issues Surrounding VAT Refunds and Government Policy Implementation
Introduction
Exporters in many countries rely on government policies and tax incentives to remain competitive in the global marketplace. One such policy is the Simplified Value Added Tax (SVAT) system, which is designed to streamline VAT processes and ensure timely refunds for exporters. Recently, there has been significant pushback from exporters regarding the proposed abolishment of SVAT. The primary reasons for their concerns revolve around inefficiencies in the current VAT refund process and the perceived negative attitude of certain tax revenue officers toward government policy implementation. There are many SME Exporters who have not qualified under the present SVAT scheme, where they had to pay VAT on their purchases to Export and had to wait for many years to get their VAT refunds.
Removing SVAT would escalate & Aggravate this situation further due to the tying up of Enormous Capital and run the risk of eliminating the Exporters entirely from Export business.
Background: The Role of SVAT for Exporters
The SVAT system was introduced to simplify the VAT mechanism for exporters, aiming to reduce the administrative burden and expedite VAT refunds. This system is crucial for exporters, as VAT refunds represent significant working capital that can impact their cash flow and operational efficiency.
Exporters’ Main Concerns
1. Inefficiency in Processing current VAT Refunds
2. One of the central complaints from exporters is the longstanding inefficiency in processing VAT refunds.
Many exporters have reported that legitimate VAT refunds have been accumulating for years, with some refunds due as far back as 2023. Even after the tax authorities have analyzed and finalized the refund amounts, this process of transferring refunds to relevant exporters , often stalls due to delays in approval from certain officials in the finance department of the Inland Revenue Department. This bureaucratic bottleneck results in exporters not receiving their refunds in a timely manner, putting strain on their finances.
3. Attitude and Actions of Tax Revenue Officers:
4. Exporters have also expressed frustration with the attitude of some tax revenue officers, who are perceived as acting in a manner that jeopardizes government policy objectives. Instead of facilitating the refund process as intended by policy, some officers are seen as creating unnecessary obstacles or failing to approve the required fund transfers to exporters’ bank accounts. This has led to a lack of trust and confidence among exporters in the tax department’s ability to implement policy effectively. We believe that the Inland Revenue department shall work hand in hand with the policies of the government do enhance and increase the volumes of exports from Sri Lanka 2 receive valuable foreign exchange. This duality of certain officers in the Inland Revenue department has hampered the progress off the exporters, as a result large amount of capital has been tied up as VAT refunds within the department for many years. By abolishing the SVAT scheme, exporters think this situation might escalate and they will have to face a shortage of capital to do the business and in return they will lose global competitiveness. The government also needs to understand the cost of interest accruing to these large amounts of VAT refunds which have in return challenged the profitability of the exporters and as a result they will go out of business and in return country will suffer. Earning and finding buyers globally is not an easy task. This required many years of marketing and canvassing after spending good money to find an international buyer
5. This attitude of the certain Inland Revenue officers by holding into the VAT refunds had created doubts about corruption too. Which had resulted unpleasantness and no confidence from the exporters to the government policy of abolishing SVAT.
First and foremost, the government should urgently look into refunding all the legitimate VAT refunds to the relevant exporters before embarking on abolishing SVAT. Tax department and the treasury should work to develop confidence among the exporters that the government system of refunding is a smooth functioning by refunding all the backlog of VAT refunds to gain confidence of the exporters of this country. Presently the Amount tied up is massive with the abolishing of SVAT, could imagine the capital getting stuck as VAT refunds. This is the issue we need to address before just jumping to conclusions. 1st to create a fool proof process where a smooth refunding system within the tax authorities and to gain confidence among exporters before abolishing the SVAT scheme. Over to the policy planning officers to look into this process without agitating the current exporters who brings valuable foreign currency to Sri Lanka
Impact on Exporters
The accumulation of unpaid VAT refunds and the perceived lack of support from tax authorities have created an environment of uncertainty and poor confidence among exporters. Exporters depend on prompt VAT refunds to maintain liquidity and invest in growth. Delays and administrative hurdles can lead to cash flow problems, reduced competitiveness, and a reluctance to expand export operations.
Conclusion
The exporters, opposing the abolishment of the SVAT system, is rooted in practical concerns about the inefficiency of the current VAT refund process and the reluctance of some tax officials to implement government policies as intended. Before considering the removal of SVAT, it is crucial for the tax department to address the backlog of legitimate VAT refunds and restore exporters’ confidence in the system. Only then can policy changes be made without jeopardizing the export sector’s trust and financial stability.
September Sees Steady Growth in Tourist Arrivals as Sri Lanka Nears 1.7 Million Visitors in 2025
September 28, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka continues to experience a resurgence in international tourism, with the latest figures indicating that 126,379 travellers arrived in the country during the month of September alone, according to data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
This steady influx contributes to a total of 1,692,902 tourist arrivals for the year so far, marking a significant rebound for the island nation’s tourism sector as it works to regain momentum following recent global and domestic disruptions.
India remains the largest source of inbound visitors, with 37,179 Indian nationals having arrived in September—representing nearly 30 percent of that month’s total arrivals. The United Kingdom followed with 8,937 visitors, while Germany accounted for 7,799. Not far behind were Australia with 7,049 arrivals, and China with 7,226, reflecting a growing interest from East Asian markets.
On a broader scale, India has contributed 362,774 visitors to Sri Lanka in 2025 so far, reinforcing its position as the country’s most significant tourism partner. The United Kingdom holds second place with 160,078 arrivals, while Russia follows with 121,452, maintaining a strong presence in the post-pandemic travel landscape.
Election Commission to Launch Strategic Plan for 2026–2029 in November
September 28, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission has confirmed that its Strategic Plan for the 2026–2029 electoral cycle is set to be officially released in the first week of November.
According to Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Ratnayake, the strategic document is currently nearing completion and is in its final stages of preparation.
The plan is expected to outline key reforms, operational priorities, and technological advancements aimed at strengthening electoral processes over the next four years.
In addition to the forthcoming strategic roadmap, Ratnayake revealed that preliminary work is already underway to draft new legislation concerning early elections.
These legal reforms are intended to provide greater flexibility and clarity in the event of unforeseen political developments or changes in electoral timelines.
Death Toll Rises to Eight in Tragic Cable Car Accident at Na Uyana Monastery
September 28, Colombo (LNW): The death toll from the devastating cable car accident at Na Uyana Āranya Senāsanaya in Melsiripura has risen to eight, following the passing of another monk who had been receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit at Kurunegala Base Hospital.
Hospital officials confirmed that despite efforts by medical staff, the monk succumbed to his injuries yesterday.
The tragedy unfolded on the night of Wednesday (24), when a cable car used by resident monks to navigate the hilly terrain of the monastery reportedly malfunctioned and collapsed.
At the time of the incident, 13 monks were inside the vehicle, returning to their meditation huts after attending a religious observance at the Pūjā Bhūmiya (offering ground).
Seven monks were confirmed dead shortly after the incident, and several others sustained injuries of varying severity. Amongst the passengers, two monks are reported to have narrowly escaped with minor injuries after leaping from the cable car moments before it fell.
Four others remain hospitalised, receiving treatment at the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital and the Polgahawela Divisional Hospital.
Police investigations suggest that a structural failure—specifically the breaking of a support cable—was the likely cause of the accident. The cable car was being used to transport the monks uphill when the malfunction occurred, leading to a sudden and fatal descent.
Of the deceased, three monks were foreign nationals. Their remains have been transferred to the Gokarella Divisional Hospital, while the bodies of the other victims are being kept at the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital.
The last rites for five of the monks were held yesterday at the Melsiripura–Pansiyagama Public Cemetery, drawing large crowds of mourners, including fellow clergy, devotees, and local residents, all united in grief over the tragic loss of life.
Foreign Investment in SL Gov Bonds Reaches Two-Year High Amid Global Bond Rally
In the latest reporting week, foreign investors made a net purchase of Rs. 334 million (approximately US$ 1.11 million), pushing the total net inflow over the past five weeks to Rs. 14.04 billion (around US$ 46.8 million). This marks the strongest foreign participation in the country’s bond market in two years, with total foreign holdings reaching Rs. 120.6 billion as of September 25—the highest level since December 2023.
The surge in demand coincides with a global appetite for government bonds. Citing figures from Reuters, international bond markets recorded a staggering US$ 22.96 billion in net inflows within a single week, the largest since at least 2022. Of this, US$ 10.01 billion was directed into short-term government bond funds, highlighting a shift towards safer assets amid ongoing global uncertainties.
Sri Lanka’s performance in this context is particularly notable given its economic challenges in recent years. Since 26th December last year, the country has attracted a cumulative Rs. 51.3 billion (approximately US$ 171 million) in foreign investment into rupee-denominated bonds.
Analysts attribute the recent inflows to the government’s continued implementation of deflationary policies, aimed at stabilising the currency and reducing import pressures. These measures appear to have improved investor confidence, even as the rupee has experienced slight depreciation following geopolitical developments earlier this year—most notably, after tariff declarations in April that triggered an Rs. 10.1 billion (US$ 32 million) outflow in just two weeks.
Despite this positive trend, Sri Lanka’s broader capital flow picture remains mixed. In 2024 alone, the country experienced foreign outflows amounting to Rs. 48.2 billion, although this is an improvement from 2023, when 78.1 billion rupees—around 66 per cent of all capital flight—was recorded from government securities in the first nine months.
With global investors continuing to seek out stable, higher-yielding government debt, Sri Lanka’s bond market may remain a beneficiary—provided macroeconomic stability is maintained and fiscal reforms continue on track.
Joint Police-Army Operation in Maradana Nets 30 Suspects
September 28, Colombo (LNW): A coordinated security operation was conducted in Maradana yesterday (27) evening, resulting in the arrest of 30 individuals linked to a range of criminal offences.
According to police, the targeted raid focused on multiple locations within the area and was carried out with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Army. The individuals taken into custody are believed to be connected to outstanding warrants and various forms of criminal activity.
Authorities stated that the operation aimed to curb organised crime, enhance public safety, and strengthen law enforcement visibility in high-risk zones.
Health Officials Urge Vigilance as Dengue Cases Surge Once Again During Rains
September 28, Colombo (LNW): Amidst ongoing monsoon rains, the National Dengue Control Unit has issued a renewed public appeal, urging communities across Sri Lanka to eliminate mosquito breeding sites without delay in order to curb the spread of dengue fever.
Public Medical Consultant Dr Prashila Samaraweera stressed the importance of proactive household and community action, warning that the disease could escalate further if preventive measures are not taken seriously. She identified Colombo, Gampaha, Jaffna, and Batticaloa as districts currently facing the highest risk.
So far this year, health authorities have recorded 38,702 cases of dengue across the country—a figure that continues to climb with the onset of wet weather. Tragically, 21 deaths linked to dengue-related complications have been confirmed.
Dr Samaraweera noted that many of these infections could have been prevented with routine removal of stagnant water in domestic and public environments. “Simple actions like clearing blocked gutters, covering water storage containers, and properly disposing of discarded items can make a significant difference,” she said.
The National Dengue Control Unit is working in coordination with local government bodies to intensify surveillance and public awareness campaigns in high-risk zones. However, officials emphasise that lasting success in reducing the spread of dengue depends largely on consistent community participation.
Health professionals continue to urge the public to seek early medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, muscle pain, or rashes occur—particularly in areas already flagged as vulnerable.
Over 450 Public Institutions Summoned for COPE Review
September 28, Colombo (LNW): A comprehensive review involving 457 public institutions has been scheduled for 2nd October, as announced by Dr Nishantha Samaraweera, Chair of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE).
According to Dr Samaraweera, all institutions falling under COPE’s oversight have been formally called to participate in the meeting, which is expected to address both systemic inefficiencies and financial accountability within the public sector.
The session will centre on identifying recurring concerns, including the potential mismanagement or misuse of public funds, lack of internal controls, and compliance issues.