South Asian Business news and information

On December 11, I wrote about the alcohol and drug problem of Sri Lanka. How the country is suffering as the alcohol consumption is rising among young people. Despite high tax on liquors and tobaccos, the upward trend continued. The main reason was police was involved in this business and government of Sri Lanka earned a huge amount of revenue. However, the scenario is changing and hopefully improving. The new law on alcohol and tobacco has been very successful in curbing people’s growing appetite for alcohol and cigarette. I am quoting from the report published in colombopage.com:

Sri Lanka's liquor and cigarette sales have fallen considerably after the induction of strict legal measures by the judiciary system and police under the Tobacco and Alcohol Act that was enacted since December 1st.

Minister of Health and Nutrition Nimal Siripala de Silva says that the sale of spirits have fallen by 30% and cigarettes by 70%.

A man who had come to assist at an identification parade found guilty this week of smoking in Colombo, Hulftsdorp court premises. He worshipped the Magistrate and vowed never to smoke again. Colombo Chief Magistrate Sarojini Kusala Weerawardena fined the suspect Rs. 500 on each charge and ordered two weeks imprisonment in default for two charges, smoking in a public place and committing contempt of court.

The new law about alcohol and tobacco has come into effect from the beginning of this month. According to another report published in Colombo page, within the first five days since the new law has come into effect, Sri Lankan police and excise officials have arrested 500 people for smoking and drinking in public places.

Understanding the possible damages of the new law, alcohol and tobacco companies are pressing the government to relax the law but Sri Lankan government is holding on to its decision. The government has taken a stern position for the safety of public health. No matter what these companies say, tobacco and alcohol bring nothing good to people. Sometimes addiction to alcohol and tobacco ruins people’s lives. I must admit that Sri Lankan government has taken a very good step and performing its duty with great care.

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Colombopage