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Verité Research highlights key takeaways from Budget 2022

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Verité Research hosted an expert commentary on the budget speech immediately after it was presented to parliament on November 12, 2021. The commentary focused on the promises stated in the budget speech along with analytical insights from PublicFinance.lk.

Major Highlights

▪ According to the values given in the budget speech, revenue is expected to grow by 46% to LKR 2,284 billion in 2022. Several new taxes and tax increases are proposed in this regard: surcharge tax on profits, social security contribution, and financial VAT.

▪ Even if the projected contribution from the new revenue measures (LKR 333 billion) is considered realistic, the rest of the revenue base would need to grow by 24% in 2022 – at least double the expected nominal GDP growth – to achieve the expected revenue target. The discussion concluded that the estimated revenue growth of 46% was highly ambitious.

▪ Whilst several panellists agreed that weak revenue generation is a critical constraint in the Sri Lankan economy, efforts to improve digitalisation of the tax system and other administrative improvements were highlighted by some panellists.

▪ Similarities between the super gain tax introduced in the 2015 interim budget and the newly introduced surcharge tax were discussed. The tax is expected to bring a revenue of LKR 100 billion. However, due to its one-off nature, this tax will not be a sustainable solution to the structural revenue constraints in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, it is a retrospective tax that will undermine the government’s stated objective of creating a stable and predictable tax regime.

▪ The proposed social security contribution appears similar to NBT tax that was removed in 2020, but the budget projects collection to be around 40% more than the typical annual collection from NBT (LKR 105 billion in 2019). This ambitions projection is in spite of having a tax-free threshold (LKR 120 million per annum) ten times higher than the NBT threshold (LKR 12 million per annum), with implementation occurring only once legislation is passed in April.

▪ Concerns were raised regarding the dampening impact the new taxes may have on investor confidence, particularly since many of the new measures are one-off in nature, and in the case of the surcharge tax, it is retroactive in operation. The misalignment between the allocations provided in the budget speech and the priorities of the economy was highlighted throughout the discussion. The high allocations for defence, road development, and generally high levels of capital expenditure over allocations for education, healthcare, and skill development were identified as being problematic.

▪ The panellists also highlighted that social security should not be limited to Samurdhi payments and should have a wider scope in ensuring the safety and the security of the citizens.

▪ The proposal to include an amendment to the Appropriation Bill preventing requests for Supplementary Estimates for 2022 was viewed in a positive light by the panellists as it would ensure that the deviation from the budgeted and actual expenditure would be minimised.

▪ The failure of the budget to address some of the critical issues facing the economy was also highlighted. The lack of attention to and focus on the management of external debt, the lack of a clear plan to regain access to international capital markets, and the related implications for dollar liquidity in the banking system were identified as shortcomings in this year’s budget.



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Yamaha roars back into Sri Lanka with stylish relaunch and ‘Built to Ride ‘campaign

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Associated Motorways (AMW), Yamaha’s exclusive Sri Lankan distributor for over 75 years, celebrated the brand’s grand return after a five-year hiatus due to import restrictions. Marking the occasion, AMW hosted a groundbreaking fashion-themed launch event on 14th June 2025 at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, unveiling a new lineup of fuel-efficient motorcycles and scooters, including the standout Yamaha RayZR 125 (71km/l).

Beyond specs, Yamaha’s “Built to Ride” campaign highlights the passion and resilience of Sri Lankan riders, focusing on emotion over mechanics. Andre Bonthuys, AMW’s Group Managing Director, emphasized Yamaha’s commitment to redefining the riding experience. Backed by AMW’s service excellence and global “Kando” philosophy, Yamaha’s return promises to revitalize Sri Lanka’s two-wheeler market with performance, innovation, and style.

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Pelwatte Dairy launches landmark pension scheme for Sri Lankan dairy farmers

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In a historic move that redefines rural financial security, Pelwatte Dairy Industries has announced the launch of Sri Lanka’s first pension scheme for dairy farmers, reinforcing its commitment to both national self-sufficiency and the welfare of the farming community.

Pelwatte Dairy, one of Sri Lanka’s foremost homegrown dairy brands, has long been a pillar in the push to replace imported dairy with locally produced milk, saving the nation billions in foreign exchange. Milk powder production is expected to increase by 80% upon completion of the new Kurunegala processing facility, supporting local demand and opening up new export opportunities.

This landmark pension initiative will benefit over 30,000 registered dairy farmers working with Pelwatte. Designed to offer financial stability post-retirement, the scheme ensures these vital contributors to Sri Lanka’s food security can live out their later years with dignity and peace of mind. Additional benefits will support health, education, and safety for the farmers’ families setting a new standard for agricultural welfare in the region.

“This is a defining milestone not just for Pelwatte, but for the entire Sri Lankan dairy sector,” said Ariyasheela Wickramanayake, Chairman of Pelwatte Dairy. “It is our corporate responsibility to safeguard those who work tirelessly to feed the nation.”

Akmal Wickramanayake, Managing Director, added: “We see this as more than a welfare initiative. It’s an investment in rural development, sustainable agriculture, and national economic resilience.”

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CEEDECS wins Best National Industry Brand award

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Managing Director Janaka Mahanama

CEEDECS Lanka Holdings Pvt. Ltd., a leading Sri Lankan construction firm, has been honored with the Best National Industry Brand Award in the Mining and Allied Industry Sector (Medium Scale) at the National Industry Brand Excellence Awards, organized by the Industrial Development Board. The award recognizes their eco-friendly brand, Harithaweli Ready Mix, which offers sustainable alternatives to traditional sand-based construction materials.

Founded in 1999 and based in Mahara, Kadawatha, CEEDECS has over 20 years of expertise in construction, consultancy, and design. Harithaweli’s products—including Ready-Mix Plaster, Waterproof Solutions, and Tile Adhesives—are durable, affordable, and environmentally friendly, gaining popularity among builders and contractors.

With 21 showrooms nationwide and multiple quality certifications, CEEDECS continues to expand its reach.

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