The Ministry of Finance has clarified that recent reports claiming an increase in taxes on several imported goods are inaccurate. The clarification followed claims that taxes on certain imports were raised from October 14 to December 31, 2024.

According to the ministry, the previous gazette on the special commodity levy expired on 13 October, leading to a renewal of the gazette on 14 October 2024. The Finance Ministry reaffirmed that the concessionary tax on imported lentils, set at 25 cents, remains unchanged, along with the rates for four other products.

The extension aims to support local industries, such as fishing and fruit cultivation, while considering foreign exchange concerns.