MP Nalin Bandara opposes VAT on eggs

SJB Kurunegala District MP Nalin Bandara Jayamaha has called on the government to remove the VAT imposed on eggs.

Speaking during the third reading debate on the 2025 budget, under the expenditure heads of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, and Irrigation in Parliament on Wednesday (12), the MP said that the average number of eggs consumed by an individual had increased from about 100 to 170 per year. “This is a positive development, as eggs provide protein at the lowest price. The price of an egg is now Rs. 30, and if the same amount of nutrition is sought from chicken meat, it would cost Rs. 100, with only 80 grams of protein being obtained,” Bandara said.

He highlighted the fact that the poultry industry had suffered immensely due to the imposition of VAT on eggs. “Eggs are being sold at Rs. 25 or Rs. 28 per egg at farms. However, despite this, VAT is being applied to eggs. The government should remove this VAT on eggs,” he stated.

The MP also questioned the rationale behind imposing VAT on eggs. “How can VAT be applied to eggs when they reach the shop?” he asked. He emphasised that while there is no issue with VAT on eggs sold in supermarkets, he strongly opposed the VAT being applied to eggs coming from farms.