2027 Budget proposes VAT exemption on exercise books, printed educational materials
Under the 2027 Budget, the government has proposed removing Value Added Tax (VAT) on school exercise books, textbooks, and several other printed educational materials to make educational resources more affordable.
During the Budget Speech in Parliament on November 12 President Anura Kumara Dissanayake proposed exempting exercise books, textbooks, dictionaries, encyclopedias, children’s drawing and colouring books, educational publications and other printed books from VAT.
While exercise books were already subject to VAT before January 2024, printed books and other printed materials were brought under the tax in January 2024. President Dissanayake stated that the measure aims to improve access to education, knowledge and reading by reducing the tax burden on essential educational materials.
Through proposed amendments to the Value Added Tax Act, No. 14 of 2002, the exemption will cover both the importation and supply of exercise books, printed books, dictionaries, encyclopaedias, children’s picture and colouring books, printed materials in single sheets, and printed music. (Eduwire)
Related News
PM says Government allocates Rs. 749 Billion for education in 2027 Budget
Prime Minister and Education Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya announced in Parliament today (November 13) that the government has allocated Rs. 749 billion…
Read More
2027 Budget strengthens school infrastructure, digital learning to advance education reforms
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced that the government will continue implementing national education reforms despite opposition, backed by increased financial support…
Read More
University academic allowance to increase by Rs. 25,000 in two phases under 2027 Budget
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, under the 2027 Budget proposed a Rs. 25,000 increase in the monthly academic allowance for university academic staff,…
Read More2027 Budget proposes VAT exemption on exercise books, printed educational materials
Under the 2027 Budget, the government has proposed removing Value Added Tax (VAT) on school exercise books, textbooks, and several other printed…
Read More
Cabinet approves US University pacts for Jaffna University, Arthur C. Clarke Institute
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved two separate proposals to execute five year Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with universities in the United…
Read MoreCourses
-
The future of higher education tech: why industry needs purpose-built solutions
For years, Institutions and education agencies have been forced to rely on a patchwork of horizontal SaaS solutions – general tools that… -
MBA in Project Management & Artificial Intelligence – Oxford College of Business
In an era defined by rapid technological change, organizations increasingly demand leaders who not only understand traditional project management, but can also… -
Scholarships for 2025 Postgraduate Diploma in Education for SLEAS and SLTES Officers
The Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education has announced the granting of full scholarships for the one-year weekend Postgraduate Diploma… -
Shape Your Future with a BSc in Business Management (HRM) at Horizon Campus
Human Resource Management is more than a career. It’s about growing people, building organizational culture, and leading with purpose. Every impactful journey… -
ESOFT UNI Signs MoU with Box Gill Institute, Australia
ESOFt UNI recently hosted a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony with Box Hill Institute, Australia, signaling a significant step in… -
Ace Your University Interview in Sri Lanka: A Guide with Examples
Getting into a Sri Lankan sate or non-state university is not just about the scores. For some universities' programmes, your personality, communication… -
MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2026
MCW Global (Miracle Corners of the World) runs a Young Leaders Fellowship, a year-long leadership program for young people (18–26) around the… -
Enhance Your Arabic Skills with the Intermediate Language Course at BCIS
BCIS invites learners to join its Intermediate Arabic Language Course this November and further develop both linguistic skills and cultural understanding. Designed… -
Achieve Your American Dream : NCHS Spring Intake Webinar
NCHS is paving the way for Sri Lankan students to achieve their American Dream. As Sri Lanka’s leading pathway provider to the… -
National Diploma in Teaching course : Notice
A Gazette notice has been released recently, concerning the enrollment of aspiring teachers into National Colleges of Education for the three-year pre-service… -
IMC Education Features Largest Student Recruitment for QIU’s October 2025 Intake
Quest International University (QIU), Malaysia recently hosted a pre-departure briefing and high tea at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo for its incoming… -
Global University Employability Ranking according to Times Higher Education
Attending college or university offers more than just career preparation, though selecting the right school and program can significantly enhance your job… -
Diploma in Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH) – CIPM
The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) is proud to announce the launch of its Diploma in Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH),… -
Small Grant Scheme for Australia Awards Alumni Sri Lanka
Australia Awards alumni are warmly invited to apply for a grant up to AUD 5,000 to support an innovative project that aim… -
PIM Launches Special Programme for Newly Promoted SriLankan Airlines Managers
The Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) has launched a dedicated Newly Promoted Manager Programme designed to strengthen the leadership and management capabilities…
Newswire
-
India grants Rs. 225 million to provide 50 medical kiosks to Sri Lanka
ON: November 13, 2026 -
Seafood exporters welcome Budget 2027, target USD 680M in earnings by 2030
ON: November 13, 2026 -
Budget 2027: What are the new proposals for vehicles?
ON: November 13, 2026 -
Sri Lanka appoints committee to expand Free Trade Agreement with India
ON: November 13, 2026
