FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – The government of Sri Lanka has announced an extension of the temporary 50 percent surcharge on Customs Import Duty for new personal vehicles, which will now remain in effect until December 31.

This surcharge was initially introduced on May 16 as a measure to deter purchases of new personal vehicles, aiming to conserve foreign currency reserves and stabilize the national currency, the rupee. Originally set to expire on August 15, the surcharge has been prolonged following an order from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also serves as the Minister of Finance.

It is important to note that this surcharge does not apply to motor bicycles, three-wheelers, or commercial vehicles.

(Colombo/August 14/2026)