The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has released the Motor Vehicle Industry Report 2025/26, marking the return of its flagship publication after six years, as Sri Lanka’s automotive sector enters a new phase with the resumption of imports.
Key findings of the report are:
- Revenue Contribution: Motor vehicle imports generated Rs. 896.4 billion in customs taxes, underscoring the sector’s importance to government finances.
- Local Assembly Growth: With over 15 local assembly plants and policies mandating at least 20% domestic content, the industry is shifting from pure imports to local value creation and job generation.
- Market Recovery: More than 327,000 new vehicles were registered in just six months of 2026, signaling strong consumer demand and a recovering market.
- Global EV Trends: One in four new cars sold globally is now electric, with EV sales surpassing 20 million units for the first time.
- AI in Automotive: From onboard safety systems to virtual vehicle testing, AI is cutting development times by up to 50%, boosting efficiency and innovation.
The publication provides in‑depth analysis of the role of the motor vehicle industry in Sri Lanka’s economy, recent policy developments, and global automotive trends shaping the future of mobility.
It includes detailed data on vehicle imports, registrations, fleet composition, and ownership transfers, while also examining market trends across segments such as brand, fuel type, cylinder capacity, and district.
The report further explores industry challenges, emerging opportunities, and the future outlook for Sri Lanka’s automotive sector. It highlights how the industry is adapting to a renewed import environment, shifting consumer preferences, technological advances, and evolving regulations.
The Chamber emphasized that the report is designed as a resource for importers, assemblers, dealers, financial institutions, insurers, policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders, offering data‑driven insights to support informed decision‑making. (Newswire)