Sri Lanka's Vehicle Import Bill Reaches US$ 613 Million in First Quarter 2026

Sri Lanka spent US$ 613 million on vehicle imports during the first quarter of 2026, according to data from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. This figure includes US$ 195 million allocated in March alone for both personal and commercial vehicles. The expenditure represents a significant increase compared to the US$ 61 million spent in the first quarter of 2025. Last year, total vehicle imports amounted to US$ 2.047 billion, exceeding earlier projections. Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe indicated that 2026 spending might also surpass initial forecasts, with the higher import volume contributing to increased Treasury revenue from taxes and duties.