Senior Economic Advisor to the President, Duminda Hulangamuwa, has stated that there will be no tax revision on vehicle imports this year. He emphasized that, as a result, there will be no change in vehicle prices in the market throughout 2025.
Hulangamuwa made this statement while participating in the 360 program broadcast on TV Derana last night (24).
Question – We thought that there was a forecast that we would import vehicles worth about one billion US dollars this year. How much is the expected rupee income from that?
“We expect between 300 – 350 billion. With our economic growth, we are now saying wait and see. We are waiting to see if we will order this vehicle now or not. If someone expects that taxes will be reduced, it will not be reduced this year. You have seen our IMF agreement. It states that vehicle taxes cannot be reduced this year.”
Hulangamuwa also commented on the proposal to appoint a new Secretary to the Ministry of Finance.
Question – Will Duminda Hulangamuwa be the next Secretary to the Ministry of Finance?
“That will be decided by the President.”
Question – Was there any discussion between you and the President or between you and the Ministry of Finance about whether you are suitable for this position?
“There was no such discussion as far as I know. That is the decision of the President and the government.”
Question – If the President invites you to take up the position of Secretary, would you be ready to leave EY and take up the position of Secretary?
“You need to think about it a little. EY is an organization where I have been for 4 years. There are some expectations there too. EY is also coming up with something this year. So, there is some commitment there too. I will have to make a decision after considering all of this.
I can’t say there are discussions. Is it right to say?
“Yes, discussions are going on internally. Let’s see what happens.”
Hulangamuwa reiterated that the decision on whether he will be appointed as the new Secretary to the Ministry of Finance rests with the President and the government. As for vehicle import taxes, the current policy will remain unchanged throughout this year, aligning with the commitments made in the IMF agreement.
