Hambantota shops close in protest against VAT

Many shop owners in Hambantota closed their shops today (07) against the decision to increase the Value Added Tax (VAT), Ada Derana reporter said. 

Daily activities in Hambantota has been affected with the closure of most shops, it was reported.

A protest march will also be organised by the traders this afternoon. Similar protests were staged in other parts of the country including in Kiribathgoda, Kadawatha, Kelaniya, Anuradhapura, Badulla, Bandarawela and Katugastota as well over the past few days.  

The VAT was increased from 11% to 15% with effect from May 02, 2016.