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Renowned British publisher calls on govt. to reconsider clamping 18% VAT on books

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John Beaufoy at an event in Singapore.

By Ifham Nizam

Renowned British publisher John Beaufoy has made an impassioned plea to Sri Lanka’s government to reconsider the 18% Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed on books, citing its detrimental effect on the country’s literary market, education system and cultural development.

Speaking exclusively to The Island Financial Review during his recent visit to Colombo to promote his latest publications, Beaufoy emphasized the adverse impact of the tax on both readers and the publishing industry.

He added: “The 18% VAT is very hefty, especially during tough economic times. Books should be treated as an educational item, as they are in the UK, where no VAT is imposed on books.”

Beaufoy, whose publishing house specializes in natural history titles across the Indo-Pacific region, expressed concern on how the tax discourages reading and limits access to knowledge.

“Sri Lankans have a deep love for reading and learning about their country, especially in areas like wildlife, ecology and conservation. This tax creates an unnecessary barrier, he added.

“Sri Lanka has long been a nation of readers, with a rich literary heritage and a strong tradition of storytelling. However, booksellers and publishers across the country have reported that the VAT has led to reduced sales and diminished accessibility for readers.

“Books are essential for spreading knowledge and preserving culture. The imposition of VAT on books is counterproductive for a country that values education, Beaufoy stated.

He pointed out that many countries, including the UK, recognize books as educational tools and exempt them from such taxes.

Booksellers like M.D. Gunasena, Vijitha Yapa and Barefoot, whom Beaufoy met during his visit, had also voiced their concerns. They noted that the VAT not only burdens readers but also hampers their ability to promote and distribute important publications, particularly those focusing on conservation and local heritage.Beaufoy added: “To speak to Vijitha is an absolute pleasure, always. He has so much knowledge and experience. I would say not just of the book business, but of the world.

“He is such an interesting man to talk to. I have known Vijitha for probably 30 years, I think. And I have been privileged to get to know him and his family over that period.

“And I always enjoy very much listening to his stories, his opinions and his knowledge of the book business is really pretty unsurpassed, I think, in Sri Lanka. Vijitha has seen it all. Of course, he was brave and entrepreneurial enough to have a bookshop at the airport in Colombo for many years, somewhere that most people, everybody who’s travelled out of Sri Lanka will be familiar with that shop.

“And it used to be a great outlet for books on Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan wildlife.”

One of the highlights of Beaufoy’s visit was the launch of A Photographic Guide to the Wildlife of Sri Lanka by Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne. The book, featuring over 1,100 species and photographs, is a celebration of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity.

“This book is a visual treasure. Gehan has done an incredible job compiling a comprehensive guide to Sri Lanka’s wildlife, ranging from birds and mammals to reptiles, insects, and marine fish, Beaufoy said. “It’s the kind of publication that fosters pride and awareness about conservation.”

Beaufoy also discussed plans for future books focusing on marine life, seashore habitats, and insects in Sri Lanka, which he believes will resonate with both locals and tourists. “Sri Lanka’s natural beauty is unparalleled. There’s so much potential to highlight the country’s biodiversity through high-quality publications,” he remarked.



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Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index

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The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the following change in S&P Sri Lanka 20 index constituents made by S&P Dow Jones Indices at the 2026 Mid-Year rebalance.

The exclusion and inclusion as announced by S&P Dow Jones Indices, effective from 22nd June 2026 (after the market close of 19th June 2026) are presented below.

The S&P SL 20 index includes the 20 largest companies, by total market capitalization, listed on the CSE that meet minimum size, liquidity and financial viability thresholds. The constituents are weighted by float-adjusted market capitalization, subject to a single stock cap of 15%, which is employed to reduce single stock concentration.

The S&P SL 20 index has been designed in accordance with international practices and standards. All stocks are classified according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®), which was co-developed by S&P Dow Jones Indices and MCSI and is widely used by market participants throughout the world.

To be eligible for inclusion, a stock must have a minimum float-adjusted market capitalization of 500 million Sri Lankan rupees (Rs), a six-month median daily value traded of Rs 0.25 million and have positive net income over the 12 months prior to the rebalancing reference date. For information, including the complete methodology, please visit: www.spindices.com

Effective from 22nd June 2026 the stocks in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 in alphabetical order are as above.

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Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus

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Teejay Lanka Chairman Ajit Gunewardene and CEO Pubudu De Silva

The Teejay Group recorded revenue of LKR 60.04 billion during the period, reflecting a 10% year-on-year decline, primarily due to continued softness in global textile demand. This performance was largely impacted by reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, intensified pricing pressures across key markets, and the resulting decline in volumes, all of which collectively weighed on topline growth.

Group Gross Profit declined by 36% year-on-year to LKR 5.02 billion, mainly attributable to lower production volumes, underutilization of plant capacity, sustained pricing pressures, and an unfavorable product mix. Together, these factors adversely affected margin performance amid a challenging operating environment.

The Group reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 54.7 million, representing a 98% year-on-year decline. This was primarily driven by higher rupee-denominated costs and non-recurring items, provision for doubtful debts, and restructuring costs associated with right-sizing initiatives.

Ajit Gunewardene, Chairman of the Teejay Group said, “The year was marked by persistent global demand softness and pricing pressures, which impacted results. Despite this, we focused on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and strengthening our financial resilience. These actions position the Group to navigate ongoing uncertainty while remaining committed to long-term value creation for our shareholders.”

Despite these near-term challenges, the Teejay Group continues to maintain a strong financial position, supported by disciplined working capital management and a robust liquidity base. As at 31 March 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at LKR 8.3 billion, while the Group’s net asset base increased by 3% year-on-year to LKR 32.4 billion, reinforcing the resilience of its balance sheet.

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Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit

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Fairfirst Insurance has once again partnered with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit, continuing its support for the seventh consecutive year. This partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the community.

Through this initiative, Fairfirst will provide comprehensive insurance coverage for the highly trained canines attached to the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit. These dogs play a critical role in supporting police operations across the country, assisting with crime detection, narcotics investigations, search and rescue missions, and public safety efforts.

As a company that believes business should create a meaningful impact beyond insurance, Fairfirst remains committed to initiatives that support communities and recognise the vital contributions of those who help keep society safe. This shared commitment to protection and responsibility continues to drive the company’s long-standing partnership with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit.

Commenting on the continued partnership, Ravishankar Wickneswaran, CEO of Fairfirst Insurance, said, “It is a privilege for us to continue supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit for the seventh consecutive year. These dogs serve the country with incredible discipline and loyalty, often in challenging situations. Supporting their wellbeing is one small way for us to give back, and it reflects the FairfirstWay of standing by those who protect and serve our communities every day.”

Fairfirst looks forward to continuing this partnership and contributing to the wellbeing of the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit in the years ahead.

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