State Minister of Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya disclosed to Parliament yesterday that the Government has received 10 applications to establish casinos, but as of now, none have been granted approval.

The revelation came in response to a question raised by MP Ven. Athureliye Rathana Thera regarding the Government’s stance on permitting new casinos in Colombo, Kandy, and Jaffna.

“We have implemented new laws concerning casinos, and consequently, a license fee of Rs. 500 million will be levied for a five-year period. Additionally, we plan to raise entrance fees for casinos, aiming to dissuade locals from frequenting these establishments,” Siyambalapitiya said.

He highlighted the need to introduce casinos as a means to attract tourists, ultimately contributing to an increase in State revenue.

Siyambalapitiya stressed that, without such initiatives, the Government might have to rely on taxes imposed on locals to boost State revenue.

In response Ven. Rathana Thera expressed concern, claiming that the Government has already granted licenses for two new casinos, including one in Kandy. He questioned the Government’s decision, stating, “One wonders whether the Government expects people to visit casinos in Kandy after worshiping the Sacred Tooth Relic.”

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