Over 1,000 uncleared vehicles at Hambantota Port to face Customs auction

Colombo, July 26 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Customs is preparing to auction or sell more than 1,000 imported vehicles that have remained uncleared at the Hambantota Port, officials said.

According to Customs Media Spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa, around 1,025 vehicles imported into the country have not been cleared by their respective importers. Of this number, 625 vehicles have remained at the port for more than six months.

Mr. Punchihewa said the vehicles are not linked to any customs violations. However, action will be taken under Section 109 of the Customs Ordinance to dispose of the uncleared vehicles through auction or tender procedures.

Under existing regulations, imported goods must be cleared within one month after the payment of applicable duties and taxes. If importers fail to complete the clearance process within the stipulated period, Customs is authorized to sell the goods and recover government revenue from the proceeds.

He said funds obtained through the sale will first be used to settle government taxes, followed by port and storage charges. Any remaining balance will be returned to the relevant importers.

Customs officials said the Hambantota Port Authority has already notified them regarding the vehicles that have remained at the port beyond the permitted period. The auction process will proceed unless importers provide valid reasons and supporting documentation explaining their inability to clear the vehicles.