Fri Sep 13 19:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Lifts Motor Vehicle Import Ban in Phased Approach

**Colombo, Sri Lanka** – After over four years of stringent import restrictions, the Sri Lankan government has announced the lifting of the ban on motor vehicle imports, effective October 1st, 2024. The decision, part of the country’s broader economic recovery strategy, will be implemented in three stages.

**Phased Reintroduction:**

* **Stage 1 (October 1st, 2024):** Imports of public passenger transport vehicles, special purpose vehicles, and other non-motorised goods will be allowed.
* **Stage 2 (December 1st, 2024):** The ban on commercial or goods transportation vehicles will be lifted.
* **Stage 3 (February 1st, 2025):** Imports of personal use vehicles, including cars, vans, SUVs, and pickups, will be permitted.

The government anticipates that the phased lifting of import restrictions will revitalize the auto industry and broader economy. The prolonged ban had resulted in an aging vehicle fleet with declining roadworthiness and fuel efficiency.

**Balancing Economic Growth and Sustainability:**

While the reintroduction of imports will place pressure on foreign exchange reserves, the government has implemented measures to mitigate this, including additional duties on vehicle imports. Furthermore, the government is committed to promoting environmentally friendly vehicles, shifting to Euro 6 emissions standards and prioritizing electric vehicle development.

**Safety Measures:**

The import policy also includes safety measures, limiting the age of imported vehicles and introducing an annual licensing system for importers, manufacturers, and traders.

The lifting of import restrictions marks a significant step in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and modernization efforts. The government aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and safety concerns through a carefully phased approach.

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