LTV limits to remain for vehicle imports: CBSL

Thursday, 23 July 2026 00:07 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

No indication from Govt. to change or suspend surcharge

Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe yesterday said the loan-to-value (LTV) restrictions on lending for motor vehicles and gold-backed loans will remain in place as macroprudential measures.

Responding to a question on whether the expected moderation in vehicle import of the vehicle import surcharge or would depend on the continuation of the tighter LTV limits, he said there is no indication that the Government intends to change or suspend the surcharge.

Dr. Weerasinghe also clarified that the surcharge is a policy decision of the Finance Ministry.

“The CBSL cannot commit to whether the surcharge will be retained or removed, as any decision would be made by the Finance Ministry in consultation with the CBSL,” he added.

However, he said the continued LTV limits is a measure intended to promote prudent lending practices among banks and finance companies, strengthen risk management, and help safeguard financial system stability.