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Sri Lanka Government Targets VAT Reduction Within Two to Three Years

President signals commitment to lowering value-added tax as part of broader economic reform agenda. The reduction is expected to provide relief to consumers and businesses as the country works toward economic stabilization.

LSN Sri Lanka · 11 October 2026

Sri Lanka's government has outlined plans to reduce the value-added tax (VAT) within the next two to three years, according to a statement from the President. The announcement reflects the administration's intent to ease the tax burden on citizens and enterprises as economic conditions improve.

The proposed VAT reduction forms part of a wider economic strategy aimed at supporting both consumer spending and business activity. Officials have framed the measure as a step toward creating a more favorable fiscal environment as the country progresses through its economic recovery phase.

The timeline of two to three years suggests the government intends to pursue the reduction once macroeconomic indicators have stabilized further. This approach aligns with recent efforts by policymakers to balance revenue generation with measures designed to stimulate economic growth.

The VAT reduction proposal comes as Sri Lanka continues to navigate significant economic challenges. The government has been implementing various fiscal and monetary measures to restore stability and support medium-term development objectives.