A private company in Sri Lanka has reportedly collected significant cash advances from customers in exchange for promises to import vehicles, as the government moves toward a new policy on vehicle imports. According to the Vehicle Importers Association, this company has taken cash advances worth lakhs of rupees from approximately 1,700 customers, who are awaiting the import of their vehicles.
The government is set to prioritize the importation of electric and hybrid vehicles, with plans to begin importing essential vehicles in February 2025 and general vehicles from April 2025. However, the move has raised concerns among vehicle importers and customers alike, with the association urging the Consumer Affairs Authority to investigate the situation.
The company in question has faced criticism for securing payments in advance from customers without delivering the promised vehicles, leaving many in doubt about the legitimacy of these transactions. The association has raised alarms about the financial risks this situation poses to both consumers and the broader vehicle import industry.
The new government policy aims to prioritize the import of more environmentally-friendly vehicles, in line with Sri Lanka’s broader efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation. However, the controversy surrounding the advance payments highlights the challenges and potential risks for consumers in navigating the evolving vehicle import landscape.
