By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama

Even though the value-added tax (VAT) has been increased from January, it will not affect several sectors, including electricity tariffs, Finance State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya said.

While addressing a meeting at the Ruwanwella area yesterday, he said, although the VAT has been consolidated with the aim of increasing government revenue in accordance with World Bank agreements, it will be only a temporary measure.

However, the State Minister mentioned that after widening the tax network, relief can be given to the people.