Sri Lanka has imported more than 220,000 vehicles so far this year, generating Rs. 587.11 billion in customs revenue, the single largest contributor to state earnings from imports in 2025, officials told Parliament’s Committee on Ways and Means.
According to data presented to the Committee, chaired by MP Wijesiri Basnayake, 55,447 motor cars, 7,331 goods transport vehicles, 142,524 motorcycles, 15,035 three-wheelers, and 1,679 passenger buses and vans had been cleared through Customs as of October 14.
Officials said revenue from vehicle imports accounted for 37% of total customs earnings this year, helping the department exceed its annual revenue target well ahead of schedule. By September 30, Customs had collected Rs. 1,737 billion, achieving 117% of its expected target of Rs. 1,485 billion.
The Committee was also informed that a digital e-tendering system would soon be introduced for auctioning confiscated goods, a move expected to improve transparency and efficiency in customs operations. (Newswire)