“No one is above the law — the shadow economy will be dismantled,” he says during National Tax Week
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has issued a strong warning against a powerful black-market network that he says is robbing the state of vital tax revenue.
Speaking during National Tax Week, the President pledged to dismantle the shadow economy and hold all perpetrators accountable — regardless of their status or connections.
“There’s a peaceful system we see on the surface — but beneath it lies a black system,” the President declared. “This network includes smugglers, corrupt officials, political actors, and even elements of the media.”
He revealed that recent customs inspections had uncovered illegally imported goods from well-known brands, exposing the scale of tax evasion and regulatory violations.
Key Points from the President’s Address:
-
No one is above the law, including public officials and business elites.
-
Every rupee paid by honest taxpayers will be protected.
-
Severe legal action will be taken against those misusing public funds or engaging in tax evasion.
President Dissanayake called on all law-abiding citizens to continue fulfilling their tax obligations, assuring them that their contributions would not go in vain.
“We will restore public trust in the financial system. This government stands with the honest taxpayer,” he affirmed.
The statement signals a potential turning point in Sri Lanka’s fiscal governance, as the government moves to reclaim lost revenue and reinforce the rule of law across all sectors.
