he government has introduced new regulations to facilitate the release of vehicles detained by Sri Lanka Customs, according to a gazette issued by Finance, Planning and Economic Development Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Effective October 24, the new rules permit the release of vehicles imported under cross-border letters of credit (LCs)—specifically where the LC was opened in a country different from the vehicle’s manufacturing origin.
Hundreds of such vehicles have been stranded at ports since May, after Customs suspended clearance citing violations of the Imports and Exports Control Act.
The newly issued gazette now provides a framework for importers to clear these vehicles, subject to strict documentation and registration requirements.
