Data from the Sri Lanka Livestock Producers Association indicates that consumers are paying significant taxes on essential protein sources. According to the association, each egg purchased includes 11 rupees in government taxes, while one kilogram of chicken includes 310 rupees in taxes.
The association reports that this indirect taxation extends beyond the production level. When consumers purchase daily food items, including fresh vegetables, fish, bakery products, or meat, from retail shops or supermarkets, additional retail-level taxes are applied. The organization estimates that these combined levies result in government taxes accounting for approximately one-third of the total retail price of eggs and chicken.