High-level meeting to address beedi industry challenges

A high-level meeting was held yesterday at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss and address challenges related to the beedi industry.

State Minister of Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, State Minister of Technology Kanaka Herath and Senior Adviser to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka discussed issues and irregularities arising in the importation of raw materials for the beedi industry.

The officials noted the need to revise the tax policy related to the importation of essential raw materials, intending to restructure it through formal channels. Furthermore, discussions were held on implementing measures to counter the unlawful importation of raw materials.

The meeting delved into the revision of the registration fee, exploring ways to streamline the process. 

A decision was taken to implement annual registration for importers and beedi manufacturing establishments. 

Ratnayaka instructed officials to take necessary measures to prevent the illicit importation of cut and processed ‘Tendu’ leaves. 

He further urged the immediate formulation of a formal legal framework to address industry-related challenges.

The discussion included the participation of officials from relevant line agencies, signifying a collaborative effort to address and rectify challenges within the beedi industry.