Call to reduce VAT imposed on school supplies

Producers  of school supplies have urged the government to reduce the value added tax (VAT) imposed on school supplies.

Noting that pencils, books and school bags all are subject to VAT, they point out that the price of an exercise book now costing Rs. 200 can be reduced by Rs. 40 if the government removes the tax.

As high quality school supplies are priced high, many parents are forced to seek cheaper, low quality alternatives, they said, adding that the imposition of taxes on these items also places Sri Lanka in violation of a UNESCO convention on educational materials and books.