Shops were closed this morning in several towns across the country as traders protested against the increase of VAT.

Shops in Nittambuwa, Kelaniya and Kiribathgoda in the Gampaha District and Pilimathalawa, Kadugannawa and Katugastota were closed this morning in protest.

Meanwhile, shops in Anuradhapura were also closed and protesters started a protest march from the Old Bus Station in the Anuradhapura town.