BIA launches VAT refund counter for tourists
Today (04), Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti and Minister of Labour and Deputy Finance Anil Jayantha officially launched a special VAT refund service for tourists at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).
A new service created by the Department of Inland Revenue will enable eligible foreign tourists to reclaim Value Added Tax (VAT) on purchases made while visiting Sri Lanka.
The initiative was initiated by a policy proposal submitted to the President on 14 March 2025 by representatives of the Gem and Jewellery Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry.
To be eligible for the refund, visitors must have stayed in Sri Lanka for more than 90 days and paid VAT exceeding Rs. 50,000. The initiative is expected to encourage international visitors to purchase Sri Lankan goods by improving tax collection efficiency. Officials stressed that the move is expected to boost both the local retail industry and tourism.
