According to the department, excise revenue reached Rs. 70.4 billion as of March 31, 2026, exceeding the quarterly target of Rs. 61.95 billion. This reflects an achievement of 113.6% of the planned revenue for the period.
Officials also noted that this figure marks a significant increase of 114.8% compared to the first quarter of 2025, indicating strong year-on-year growth.
Excise Commissioner General M. B. N. A. Premaratne stated that the achievement was driven by effective guidance from the new government and the full commitment of excise officers at all levels.
He further explained that several enforcement measures contributed to the revenue growth, including strict monitoring of liquor manufacturing plants and distilleries, the introduction of security seals on liquor bottles, intensified raids against illegal alcohol production, and regular inspections of licensed premises.
The Excise Department, which ranks third among state revenue-generating institutions, aims to achieve an annual revenue target of Rs. 245 billion for the year 2026.
