Sale of Alcohol Company Branded Sarongs in Pamunuwa, Maharagama

Location: Pamunuwa, Maharagama
Date of Observation: April 2, 2026
Reported by: Thinesh Kumara

In early April 2026, the ADIC team and community volunteers observed the sale of sarongs displaying the logo of the Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka (DCSL) in the Pamunuwa trading area, Maharagama. Initially, this promotion was observed through social media, where it was promoted through different channels. Through our investigation, it was found that these sarongs were distributed by DCSL to retailers as part of New Year promotions targeting the Sinhala and Tamil New Year season.

Approximately five to six clothing shops in the area were selling these items. Pamunuwa is a high-footfall commercial zone, with an estimated daily visibility of 10,000–15,000 people during the festive season. The use of alcohol brand names and logos on clothing constitutes a direct violation of the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) Act No. 27 of 2006.

Upon identifying the violation, the ADIC team, in coordination with the Maharagama MOH office and the area Public Health Inspector (PHI), engaged with the shop owners to raise awareness of the legal implications. As a result, the retailers have discontinued the sale of the branded sarongs.

ADIC continues to monitor the area and other locations to ensure that similar promotional materials are not being circulated or sold.