Industry representatives say the penalty has placed an additional financial burden on importers already struggling with reduced demand, while high taxes on small vehicles continue to discourage buyers.
Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s Monthly Economic Indicators Report for October shows a significant rise in vehicle registrations this year. According to the report, 268,544 new vehicles were registered between January and October 2025, representing a growth of 370.4 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.
The report further states that 48,006 new vehicles were registered in October alone.
In addition, vehicles and machine parts valued at approximately Rs. 89,052 million were imported into the country during the January–October 2025 period. This marks a 21 per cent increase compared to the corresponding period last year.
Despite the increase in imports and registrations, vehicle importers maintain that sales have slowed due to economic pressures linked to the current disaster situation and are urging the government to provide relief measures to stabilise the sector.
