Excise Dept Revenue Surges in First Half of 2025, Exceeding Targets

Oficials attribute the surge to intensified efforts under the “Badu Shakthi” initiative, a key directive introduced by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to bolster state revenue through enhanced tax compliance.

Key actions taken during the special “Tax Week” campaign included widespread inspections of licensed liquor outlets, public awareness campaigns, and crackdowns on illicit alcohol production and sales. These measures were aimed at curbing tax evasion and increasing legal sales volumes, thereby boosting government income.

For comparison, the Excise Department’s total earnings for the entirety of 2024 stood at Rs. 226.7 billion. With half the 2025 figure already surpassing the halfway mark of last year's total, authorities are optimistic about exceeding the annual target by year-end.

A senior Excise official noted that ongoing operations and surveillance efforts would continue to ensure that illegal activities do not undermine revenue streams and public safety.