Govt. to ease import restrictions on more products

State Minister of Finance Dr. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya over the weekend without revealing specifics said that restrictions on imports of several more products will be lifted next year.

According to him, although import restrictions were imposed on 1,465 types of goods due to the severe foreign exchange crisis in the country, 795 products have been allowed to be imported so far.

State Minister Siyambalapitiya said while easing of restrictions on the import of goods will continue next year, imports of certain goods should be banned completely.

He said that among the 670 types of goods that are subject to import restrictions, there are many goods that can be produced locally, and accordingly, the relaxation of import restrictions on goods that cannot be produced locally is being considered.

However, the Minister said he requests to consider whether the country should continue to import products that can be produced locally, such as shell-less coconut kernels, Vesak lanterns, kites, and bamboo-related products or produce them locally and stand up as a nation.