CMC revises entertainment tax to boost cultural activities

Steps were taken to amend the entertainment tax levied by the Colombo Municipal Council to provide more opportunities for entertainment, cultural activities, and sports for the people of Colombo city.

Colombo Mayoress Vraîe Cally Balthazaar stated this, sharing a note on her Facebook account.

She mentioned that, according to a request made by the Governor to allocate more space for the entertainment of the people of Colombo city, proposals were passed to grant this tax relief through the 2026 budget.

Accordingly, the gazette notification containing the relevant tax amendments has already been issued.

Under this new amendment, rates in all entertainment tax categories were reduced, and steps were specifically taken to lower the tax rate for local concerts from the 12% that existed previously to 7% to provide encouragement to local artists and the art sector.

Regarding this, Mayoress Balthazaar further stated:

"Organisers receive a great relief because of this tax concession we provided. Taking that relief into consideration, we request all organisers to take steps to reduce ticket prices. Then a larger number of people will get the opportunity to experience art and entertainment. Our primary expectation is the development of the art sector as well as the people receiving quality entertainment at an affordable price."