The National Convener of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya Anti-Corruption Force has alleged that around 4,000 motor vehicles, along with two companies, opened Letters of Credit (LCs) just ahead of the imposition of a 50% surcharge on customs import duties on vehicles.
Niroshan Padukka said the information had been formally submitted to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Central Bank of Sri Lanka, drawing attention to what he described as a sudden spike in import-related financial activity prior to the policy change.
The surcharge on vehicle import duties was introduced on the 15th, a move authorities said was intended to mitigate potential future economic risks amid ongoing external pressures.
Padukka, representing the Samagi Jana Balawegaya Samagi Jana Balawegaya Anti-Corruption Force, raised concerns over the timing of the transactions, suggesting a possible attempt to capitalize on pre-hike pricing conditions.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan rupee has continued to show depreciation against the US dollar, adding further pressure to import costs and broader market stability, officials noted.
