Sri Lanka’s automotive industry is experiencing significant transformations, driven by policy changes, growth in local manufacturing, and international collaborations.

In a notable policy shift, the Sri Lankan government announced the phased lifting of the temporary suspension on motor vehicle imports, effective October 1, 2024. This decision aims to rejuvenate the automotive sector and address the challenges of an aging vehicle fleet. The phased approach includes:

• Stage 1 (October 1, 2024): Resumption of imports for public passenger transport vehicles and special-purpose vehicles.
• Stage 2 (December 1, 2024): Lifting of restrictions on commercial or goods transportation vehicles.
• Stage 3 (February 1, 2025): Permission for the importation of personal usage motor vehicles, including cars, vans, SUVs, and pickups.

This strategic easing is anticipated to inject vitality into the auto industry and enhance government revenue.
Source: Daily News LK

Sri Lanka’s local vehicle assembly and automotive [...]