The Hon. Upali Samarasingha - Deputy Minister of Co-operative Development

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, first, a request to the Opposition. Today’s debate was initiated to consider regulations and several resolutions under two important laws. However, the first two speakers from the Opposition spoke on peripheral matters, not addressing shortcomings or improvements in the regulations and resolutions at hand. The Opposition’s role is to bring constructive proposals when Bills or other items come before this august House.

¶ 02 Today we are considering key regulatory changes to address legal gaps or delays in vehicle imports. Some of our laws are 10–15 years old and must be updated to current market conditions, technological changes, and people’s needs, with transparency, economy, better public service, and sound international dealings. That is why we present these regulations: to ensure lawful, timely vehicle import procedures and to rationalize deposit/advance account limits to improve departmental efficiency.

¶ 03 In the past, some abused processes: tax evasion, even stolen vehicles being brought in and registered. Investigations are ongoing. There were also long delays that tied up funds of importers and buyers, partly due to cross-border procedural gaps and lack of information on vehicle condition and technology. Tax administration also needed updating.

¶ 04 With Gazette No. 2428/07 of 19 March 2025 we have designated compliant inspection institutions to help ensure that vehicles are imported swiftly and fairly, with proper condition checks and fair pricing.

¶ 05 On deposit/advance accounts, after a decade or more, reviews show the need to recalibrate limits—some up, some down—for better service and fiscal prudence. We have engaged the relevant institutions and proposed adjustments accordingly.

¶ 06 On salt production in Puttalam, in response to figures cited earlier, the aggregate of all producers there is just over 30,000 MT—not 50 percent of national requirement as claimed. We regret inaccurate statements. As of today, about 600 MT have been released, and daily releases will continue over the next few days as shipments are cleared.

¶ 07 Regarding the road between Mannar and Puttalam raised yesterday: we respect the judiciary. There is a court order in this matter. We will act accordingly and address the people’s needs within the legal framework. Thank you.