The Ministry of Finance has issued a new gazette notification easing several long-standing restrictions on vehicle imports, bringing relief to the automotive sector. The directive, signed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, came into effect on April 29.
As a result of this move, several categories of vehicles that had been held up at ports due to previous import limitations are now eligible for clearance.
“We have been unable to clear these vehicles for the past one and a half to two months,” said Mr. Prasath Manage, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Vehicle Importers Association. “With this new gazette, we can now release vehicles such as the Hybrid Toyota Raize and Hybrid Nissan X-TRAIL. Other hybrid models with similar technology are also eligible for clearance.”
The directive marks a turning point for the local vehicle import industry, which had faced considerable challenges due to import bans and foreign exchange shortages in recent years.
In a related development, the government has also lifted the ban on the import of unregistered new motorcycles. According to a separate gazette notification, these imports will now be permitted, provided valid import permits are obtained in accordance with regulatory procedures.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the decision, stating it will help stabilize the market and meet consumer demand for fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles.
