Arutha Debt & Tax Dialogue

Arutha hosted its inaugural conference, The Debt & Tax Dialogue, on 03 September 2025 at the Courtyard by Marriott. The conference brought together leading economists, policymakers, media, and civil society voices to examine the relationship between debt, taxation, and Sri Lanka’s economic future.

The conference opened with remarks from the Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Hon. Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando. This was followed by a presentation from Arutha’s Executive Director, Yolani Fernando, who spoke on the country’s tax challenges and the evolving relationship between taxpayers and the state.

The first panel discussion explored the importance of fairness and accountability in tax policy and delved into strategies to improve the tax system to support economic recovery and long-term fiscal sustainability. Panelists included Mr. D. R. S. Hapurachchi, former Commissioner General of the Inland Revenue Department; Professor Mick Moore, Political Economist and taxation specialist from the Institute of…