COLOMBO, Feb. 6 (Xinhuanet) -- The Sri Lankan government announced that they have decided to withdraw taxes and duty exemptions on most goods needed for tsunami reconstruction, the local website said on Sunday.

    "Only certain items such as medical supplies, milk powder, infant milk, infant food, roofing material and components of pre-fabricated houses will be released free of duty," the Finance Ministry said.

    The Ministry has also authorized the Sri Lanka Customs to charge duty and taxes on items received as relief to tsunami victims.

    According to Finance Ministry sources rice, biscuits, instant food, garments including used clothes and drinking water will no longer be permitted to released free of duty and taxes in view of the implications on local producers and industries. Enditem