JKCG rejects claims of prior knowledge over the vehicle import surcharge, denying BYD LCs were opened before the May 15 Gazette.
JKCG has firmly denied allegations that it had prior knowledge of Sri Lanka’s recent temporary surcharge on imported motor vehicles.
John Keells CG Auto issued a statement today (22), responding to public claims that certain vehicle importers, including JKCG, had opened Letters of Credit just before the relevant Gazette was issued.
The allegations referred to Gazette notification No. 2488/56, dated May 15, 2026, which introduced the temporary surcharge on imported motor vehicles.
Rejecting the claims, JKCG said it had “no prior knowledge” of the surcharge.
The company also stated that no Letters of Credit had been established for BYD vehicles on the day immediately before the Gazette notification.
JKCG further said its most recent orders for BYD vehicles were placed between March and April 30, 2026.
It added that no Letters of Credit had been established after that date, including during May 2026.
The company said that, as a major player in the motor vehicle market, it places orders regularly as part of its normal business operations.
JKCG also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, good governance, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
The company said it would continue serving customers within the prevailing regulatory framework.
