June 21, Colombo: The Excise Department states that a limited number of outlets with excised licenses can be opened for the sale of liquor on days when the travel restrictions are lifted.

Accordingly, only licensed outlets called Wine Stores and outlets licensed for the sale of beer and wine can be opened in this manner. In addition, the Department stated that wholesalers who do not sell liquor to consumers and are engaged in the distribution of liquor can also open licensed wholesale outlets.

However, the Excise Department stated that restaurants, hotels, guest houses, rest houses, cinemas and clubs will not be allowed to serve liquor until further notice.

Excise Commissioner Kapila Kumarasinghe stated that the law will be strictly enforced against those liquor outlets which do not comply with the recommended health guidelines.