Govt. in fresh push to expand tax net via voluntary compliance

Economic Development Deputy Minister Nishantha Jayaweera hosts senior tax officials to strategise on achieving 2026 revenue targets on current needs, resources gaps Highlights importance of a simplified system to improve compliance levels and public trust Directs officials to submit practical and urgent implementation plan

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WITH Ditwah Cyclone adding tremendous strain on the Government to maintain its fiscal discipline while supporting the economy's recovery, the Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry yesterday said it has initiated a renewed effort to expand the country's tax net to ensure 2028 tax revenue targets are met.

It aims to do this by simplifying processes, improving public awareness, and strengthening institutional commitment and capacity.

The direction came during a special discussion held on Tuesday on "Measures to be taken to widen the tax net in accordance with the Government's tax policy." The meeting was chaired by Deputy Economic Development Minister U.D. Nishantha Jayaweera, with the participation of Inland Revenue Department (IRD) Commissioner General Rukdevi Fernando and senior officials.