📈 CoPF Approves Higher Levies on Imports & Demands Major Tariff/Excise Reforms

• The Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) has approved increased Special Commodity Levies (SCL) on key imports, effective 26 August 2025, aimed at protecting local farmers during the 2025 Yala season. • Levy Hikes: The SCL on imported big onions increased by Rs. 10/kg (from Rs. 40 to Rs. 50), and on imported potatoes by Rs. 20/kg (from Rs. 60 to Rs. 80). • Tariff Reform Mandate: CoPF demanded an overhaul of the national tariff structure to be sustainable, simple, transparent, and predictable. Ministries were directed to assess the shift to a four-band import duty system and the gradual phase-out of para-tariffs (SCL/CESS) between 2027 and 2030. • Agricultural Support: A national project was recommended to promote high-yield cultivation kits for big onions and integrate storage/buy-back schemes within five years to reduce dependence on tariffs. • Excise Enforcement: New rules were approved to tighten duty collection from liquor manufacturers. Non-payment will now lead to production suspension after 30 days and a halt to distribution/sales after 90 days, replacing the previously insufficient penalty mechanism.