Sri Lanka Bans Liquor Sales for New Year 2026

PublishedApril 8, 2026 at 4:06 AM UTC+00:00

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Local News Sri Lanka Excise Department Liquor Ban New Year Public Holiday Alcohol Law 1913 Hotline

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All liquor stores across Sri Lanka to close for Sinhala and Tamil New Year

All liquor outlets across Sri Lanka will remain closed on April 13 and 14, coinciding with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations, Excise Commissioner General M.B.N.A. Pemarathna announced. With government approval, licensed establishments, including liquor shops, taverns, hotels, restaurants, and karaoke bars, will suspend alcohol sales during these two days. Pemarathna further said that strict legal action will be taken against any license holders found violating excise laws by selling alcohol during the holiday period. He further urged the public to report any illegal liquor trafficking to the hotline number 1913. Special excise operation units in Galle, Anuradhapura, Kandy, Kurunegala, and island‑wide will be on heightened alert to apprehend offenders engaged in unlawful alcohol distribution during the festive season, he added. (Newswire) 2026-04-08

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