Milk powder containers detained due to import control violations: State Finance Minister

State Finance Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya

State Finance Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya yesterday revealed that the six containers with milk powder held by Sri Lanka Customs were due to the violation of import-export control regulations by the importer.

“If the importer fulfils the legal requirements, the Customs Department can release the containers before the milk powder stock get expired. This milk powder stock was imported illegally as per the law,” he told the House yesterday.

Explaining that importation of milk powder for direct consumption is permitted, he said if any essence is imported as raw material, it requires prior approval of the Import and Export Controller General.

“This stock of milk powder has been imported on the recommendation of the Industries Ministry Secretary as a raw material to produce chocolate and milk tea. The related legal process is a must, as this stock of milk powder is considered illegal,” the State Minister explained.

He also said that the delay to release the milk powder containers will in no way result in a shortage in the market. 

“No import restrictions have been imposed on milk powder, so the public should need to have undue fears,” State Minister Siyambalapitiya said.