Paying our tax dues is a basic civic duty of every citizen. People should understand that it is their tax rupees that pay for basic services and securities – such as healthcare, the function and operation of government bodies, and public goods and services that are provided to every citizen.

As a matter of fact, every citizen aged 18 and above should be required to file a tax return regardless of whether or not there’s a liability to pay taxes. The number on our national identity card should be our tax identification number.

The payment of taxes must be simplified and everyone must be treated equally. There should be no need for any citizen to visit the tax office and have discussions with tax officers. All operations should be carried out digitally.

Moreover, the tax system must be as transparent as possible; and ad hoc changes should not be made based on individual demands and needs. If there is a level playing field and consistent tax policies, no one needs to be enticed with tax concessions to invest in Sri Lanka.

Every citizen aged 18 and above should be required to file a tax return regardless of whether or not there’s a liability to pay taxes