Import duty on seven essential goods removed

COLOMBO: The Government has decided to remove import duty on seven essential commodities to maintain a steady price during the Sinhala and Tamil New year in April.

The commodities include green gram, dried chillies and canned fish. In addition, the Rs.20 tax on one kilo of big onion will be slashed to Rs. 10.

The relaxing of duty will be effective till April 30.

The decision was taken by the President when the committee appointed to look into means of reducing the cost of living met at Temple Trees on Wednesday.

The President has ordered to make sure the relief will directly benefit the consumers.