The Hon. Manoj Rajapaksha

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, to reiterate: after years without imports, technology has advanced—hybrid and electric vehicles are more prevalent. The old paper-heavy exchange of documents is too slow. With these regulations, even if minor document deficiencies exist, online confirmation from Sri Lanka will be possible without resending couriers, enabling timely clearance.

¶ 02 As our reserves improve—now about USD 6.3 billion, expected to reach USD 7.3 billion by year-end—we will progressively widen vehicle imports consistent with macro stability, increasing Treasury revenue by reducing unnecessary delays. Double-checks by Sri Lanka Customs alongside bank checks will deter past malpractices. On deposit/advance accounts, we rationalize up and down—e.g., reducing book printing allocations from Rs. 20,000 million to Rs. 8,500 million, and increasing enforcement fuel from Rs. 8 million to Rs. 16 million—to strengthen investigations. Railway departmental allocations rise from Rs. 2,500 million to Rs. 3,000 million. The Government recognizes needs and provides resources accordingly. Thank you.