Finance Ministry approves issue of soft liquor licences to hotels registered with SLTDA

1 August 2022 08:39 am Views - 155

The President in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Economic Stability and National Policies, has granted approval to issue soft liquor licenses to all hotels and restaurants registered with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and tourist establishments located in areas identified by the authority.  

In a statement, President Ranil Wickremesinghe with powers vested in him under Article 25, and as per Article 32 of the Excise Ordinance said the decision to issue licence for soft liquor (such as beer and wine) sales was taken as a flexible strategic move to boost the tourism sector.  


Accordingly, all SLTDA registered star-class hotels, boutiques, historic hotels, tourist hotels, tourist guest houses, tourist hostels, tourist bungalows, camp sites, historic bungalows, historic residences, tourist restaurants, food courts and tourist apartments will be conditionally allowed to sell soft liquor with effect from July 28.  
The license is required to be renewed annually.