JAAF Calls for Delay in SVAT Removal Until Efficient VAT Refund System Is in Place

JAAF urges the government to delay the removal of the SVAT system until VAT refund mechanisms are fully ready. A smooth transition is vital to support Sri Lanka’s apparel exporters.

On 25th September 2025, key industry leaders gathered at Marriott Colombo to discuss the SVAT repeal and its impact on the export sector. Speakers included:
* Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General, JAAF (Opening remarks)
* Rajitha Jayasuriya, Chairperson SLAEA / JAAF Representative (E-invoicing update)
* Shiham Marikar, Secretary General, NCE (Exporter impact)
* Devanayagam Ganesh, Tea Exporters’ Association (Tea sector update)
* Nalaka Ratnayake, Exporters Association of Sri Lanka (IRD-related issues)
* Pushpika Janadheera, SLAMERP (Sector-specific concerns)

The session emphasized the importance of timely VAT refunds within 45 days, expressed concerns about IRD’s digital readiness, and called for a delay until systems are fully prepared.