Sri Lanka's first survey on taxpayer awareness reveals big gaps in understanding rights and obligations

ICCSL report urges more inclusive, trust-based approach to tax education

- 

IN a landmark move to build a more citizen-focused tax system, the International Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka (ICCSL) has released the country's first national survey on public awareness of the Taxpayer Charter and the findings are eye-opening.

Conducted by the ICCSL Committee on Research, Knowledge Mobilisation and Taxation, the survey set out to understand how well ordinary Sri Lankans know their rights and obligations as taxpayers. The study was carried out by University of Sri Jayewardenepura ICT Head Prof. B.W.R. Damayanthi, and Inland Revenue Deputy Commissioner General and ICCSL Committee for Research, Knowledge Mobilisation and Taxation Chair Dr. Nadee Dissanayake.

The final report was handed over to ICCSL Chairman Shanil Fernando on 28 May, 2025, and presented to ICCSL Board Members and Committee representatives during a special session held at the ICCSL Head Office.