Ticket cost of entertainment shows, international matches tipped to increase

COLOMBO (News1st): Ticket costs for entertainment shows and international sports tournaments in the Western Province are likely to be increased from 2021 due to a tax hike, a state notice showed. The entertainment tax on a ticket for international sports tournaments in the western region that stood at 10 percent will be increased to 13 percent, according to a notice published by the governor. It adds that the tax imposed on a ticket for carnivals, circuses, and entertainment shows involving local and foreign artistes, will be increased from 10 to 12 percent. These rates will prevail until 2022. However, the existing levy on a ticket for cinema halls - 10 percent; stage dramas, sports meets, and dinner dances - eight percent, will remain unchanged. Entertainment shows held as fundraisers for critically ill artistes, and the final concert of a veteran artist above the age of 75, will be exempted from the entertainment tax. Under the entertainment tax act, local authorities can decide on the corresponding tax rates for events taking place in areas under their purview.