Monday Jul 27, 2026
Monday Jul 27, 2026
Monday, 27 July 2026 06:53 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Sri Lanka Customs will move to dispose of more than 1,000 imported vehicles that remain uncleared at Hambantota Port, with authorities set to auction or sell them through a tender process in accordance with the Customs Ordinance.
Customs Media Spokesman Chandana Punchihewa said around 1,025 vehicles imported into the country remain at the Port without being cleared by their importers. Of these, around 625 vehicles have been at the Port for more than six months since their arrival.
He stressed that the vehicles are not subject to any Customs violations. However, as importers have failed to complete the clearance process, Customs will proceed with their disposal under Section 129 of the Customs Ordinance.
Punchihewa said importers are required to clear goods within one month of paying the applicable duties and taxes. Where this requirement is not met, the law empowers Customs to dispose of the goods and recover the taxes payable to the Government from the sale proceeds.
He said any balance remaining after the settlement of taxes would be used to meet port and warehouse charges, while any remaining funds thereafter would be returned to the relevant importer.
Punchihewa added that port authorities are required to notify Sri Lanka Customs when imported goods remain uncleared for more than one month. Customs has already been informed of the vehicles currently held at Hambantota Port and will take the necessary action to dispose of them.
He said Customs would nevertheless consider requests from importers who provide valid reasons for failing to clear their vehicles, with each case assessed on its individual merits.
