World-renowned chef Dharshan Munidasa recently criticized the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) for opposing the serving of alcohol at discounted rates during promotional “Happy Hours” at establishments licensed to sell liquor. Munidasa is one of the most highly respected chefs in the industry and the mastermind behind some of the best restaurants in Sri Lanka. He is the only Sri Lankan chef to have had two of his restaurants ranked on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list and has elevated Ministry of Crab to a global level.
Munidasa, who is also the President of the Colombo City Restaurant Collective Association, recently told the Sunday Times that the government and its agencies should not dictate how restaurants run their businesses. According to Munidasa, business entities decide internally on the price markup for their products.
He argued that rules preventing the attraction of customers discourage the industry and could negatively impact the livelihoods of many Sri Lankans. Munidasa’s comments reflect the industry’s displeasure over NATA’s directives.
Meanwhile, a rift has emerged as the Excise Department expressed opposing views on serving alcohol at discount rates. This controversy followed recent directives issued by NATA, warning that legal action would be taken against several star-level hotels serving alcohol at discounted rates during “Happy Hours.” According to NATA’s directives, such promotions can result in a fine.
A letter issued by NATA Chairman Dr. Alan Ludowyke stated that such actions are a direct infringement of Section 37(2) of the NATA Act No. 27 of 2006, which incurs a penalty of Rs. 50,000.
The Sunday Times reported that Excise Commissioner General M.J. Gunasiri expressed opposing views to NATA. He reportedly said that there is a possibility of permitting “Happy Hours,” a period during which alcoholic drinks are served at discount rates at licensed establishments. The Excise Commissioner General noted that tourism is important to the economy and said he would discuss the matter with NATA to find a resolution.
He emphasized that the restaurant industry in Sri Lanka has recently bounced back from crises that began in 2019. However, according to the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol Act, a person shall not offer any prize, gift, cash rebate, discount, or the right to participate in any contest, lottery, or game to the purchaser of a tobacco product or alcohol product.
