Sri Lanka's Committee on Ways and Means has called for comprehensive modernization of the country's tax administration, emphasizing digitalization, expanded taxpayer coverage, and stronger institutional capacity to improve fiscal performance.
A parliamentary committee has outlined an ambitious agenda to transform Sri Lanka's tax administration through technological advancement and institutional strengthening. Meeting under MP Wijesiri Basnayake's chairmanship, the Committee on Ways and Means brought together officials from the Ministry of Finance and the Inland Revenue Department to assess the nation's fiscal trajectory and identify reform priorities.
The Committee's review encompassed tax collection performance through mid-2026, compliance metrics, and the rollout of new digital systems designed to streamline taxation processes. A central focus was the Revenue Administration Management Information System (RAMIS), alongside emerging areas such as taxation of digital services. Members noted that recent policy measures have contributed to fiscal stability and emphasized the need to maintain this momentum through continued reform.
Digitalization featured prominently in the Committee's recommendations, with discussions centered on expanding electronic registration, filing, and payment capabilities. Officials identified several interconnected challenges requiring attention: incorporating informal economic activities into the formal tax system, upgrading technological infrastructure, resolving data integration obstacles, and cultivating specialized expertise among tax administration personnel. Enhanced coordination between institutions through improved data sharing was also highlighted as essential for efficiency gains.
The Committee's forward-looking agenda includes strengthening RAMIS functionality, broadening the taxpayer base beyond current levels, and improving overall administrative efficiency. The meeting drew participation from multiple Deputy Ministers and MPs alongside senior finance officials, underscoring the initiative's significance within parliamentary priorities for economic management.
