Sri Lanka Customs to Auction Over 1,000 Unreleased Vehicles at Hambantota Port

Sri Lanka Customs has announced that 1,025 imported vehicles remain unreleased at the Hambantota Port, with some vehicles staying at the port for more than six months.

Sri Lanka Customs Media Spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa said that 625 vehicles have remained uncleared for over six months since their arrival in the country. He added that no customs offences have been recorded in connection with these vehicles.

According to Customs, action will be taken under Section 129 of the Customs Ordinance to sell vehicles that have not been released for an extended period without valid reasons. The vehicles may be disposed of through public auction or tender procedures.

Customs regulations require imported goods to be cleared within one month after all applicable taxes have been paid. If importers fail to collect their goods within the required period, authorities have the legal authority to sell them and recover the taxes owed to the government.

The revenue generated from such sales will first be used to settle government taxes, followed by port and warehouse charges. Any remaining balance will then be returned to the relevant importer, Punchihewa said.

He explained that when goods remain uncleared for more than a month, the Port Controller is required to notify Sri Lanka Customs, after which necessary action can be taken.

However, Customs has stated that importers who are unable to release their vehicles due to legitimate reasons may submit their explanations, which will be considered by the authorities.