Basil says no decision to tax EPF benefits

Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa has dismissed social media reports that he has proposed the imposition of a 14% tax on Employment Provident Fund (EPF) benefits.

During a meeting with Parliamentarians, Governors, District Secretaries and other representatives at Temple Trees last week, he said there’s no move to tax retirement benefits of private sector employees.

He said the Covid-19 vaccination drive has been given top priority by the government and necessary funds to purchase the jabs will be allocated as the health and safety of the people are of utmost importance.