Categories: Articles

LNP – If special GST is imposed, vehicle prices will rise further

If the new Special Goods and Service Tax (GST) is imposed on vehicle imports, the prices of imported vehicles will rise further, Vehicle Importers’ Association of Sri Lanka (VIASL) Secretary Arosha Rodrigo said.

He said with the COVID pandemic in the country, total vehicle imports were suspended by the government to save foreign exchange.

According to the Finance Ministry, the GST was proposed in the Budget 2021 and was proposed to be implemented from January 1, 2022.

In the Budget 2021, it was stated that an online managed single special goods and services tax would be proposed on telecommunications, motor vehicles, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, betting and gaming.

Mr. Rodrigo stated that the current budget proposal will keep the vehicle import suspension in place even into next year.

“When we searched for more details from the Finance Ministry, they said the vehicle importation topic is not even suitable to talk about given the critical situation the country is currently facing,” he said.

Mr. Fernando said that vehicles are very expensive, and people are used to purchasing new vehicles despite many difficulties.

Therefore, he has requested the government not to impose such taxes on vehicle imports in this critical situation that the importers are facing.

Tyronne Jayamanne

View Comments

Recent Posts

LNP – Deputy Minister reveals procedure for importing vehicles

Deputy Minister of Economic Development Prof. Anil Jayantha Fernando clarified the procedure for importing vehicles…

1 hour ago

LNP – Arjuna Mahendran noticed to appear in court over bond scam

The Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court today issued a notice directing former Central Bank Governor Arjuna…

2 hours ago

LNP – Presence of Harini, Vijitha, Tilvin at ABBA Tribute Show clarified

Responding to social media reports criticizing the presence of top NPP members at the ABBA…

9 hours ago

LNP – China reiterates support to Sri Lanka

The Vice Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), Sun Haiyan…

9 hours ago

LNP – Very heavy rainfall of over 200 mm expected – Met Dept.

The Meteorology Department says the Depression over Southwest Bay of Bengal was located to southeast…

9 hours ago

LNP – A/L candidates affected by bad weather allowed to sit for exams at nearest centres

Candidates facing difficulties are encouraged to contact the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) via the hotline…

9 hours ago