The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has warned traders selling engine oil, gear oil, lubricants and grease to ensure that their products carry the mandatory Government Agreement Number, cautioning that legal action will be taken against those violating the regulations.
In a statement, the CAA said that under Direction No. 88, published in Gazette Extraordinary No. 2327/36 dated April 12, 2023, lubricants and grease cannot be imported or manufactured without a valid agreement with the Government of Sri Lanka.
Accordingly, every unit of lubricant or grease stored, stocked, sold, packed, repacked or displayed for sale must carry the number assigned to the relevant government agreement.
The number must be printed on the container, packaging or wrapper, or displayed on a firmly attached label.
The CAA emphasised that the requirement applies to retailers as well, even if they are not directly involved in importing or manufacturing the products.
Traders have been advised to verify the Government Agreement Number before purchasing stocks, obtain details of suppliers, importers or manufacturers, and retain purchase bills and invoices for verification.
They have also been instructed to inspect the labels of all lubricants and grease currently offered for sale to ensure compliance.
The CAA said market inspections and special raids are being conducted to identify violations, with legal action to be initiated against responsible parties following investigations.
Consumers can lodge complaints with the CAA through its hotline, 1977. (Newswire)