## 🚭 Sri Lanka Customs Enforces Strict Cigarette Import Ban

• The Directive: Sri Lanka Customs has reiterated a total ban on passengers importing foreign cigarettes. Violators face severe legal penalties as authorities tighten border controls to protect national revenue. • Enforcement Actions: Seizure Volume: 232.804 million foreign-manufactured cigarette sticks were seized over the last four months. Destruction: The entire stock was recently destroyed at the Kerawalapitiya Waste-to-Energy Power Plant under official supervision. • Economic Impact: Valuation: The seized cigarettes were valued at Rs. 305 million. Revenue Protection: The operation prevented an estimated Rs. 271 million loss in tax revenue to the Government. • Key Focus: This move highlights the government's commitment to curbing the illicit tobacco trade, which directly impacts the fiscal health and tax revenue streams essential for the national economy. 📈 ---