Vehicle importers expressed concern that vehicle prices may rise across the board following the upcoming (2026) Budget.

Explaining that import duties are generally imposed on 85% of the value of a vehicle due to a discount given to local importers, the Sri Lanka Vehicle Importers’ Association’s Chairperson Prasad Manage said that there is information to believe the 15% exemption may be removed following the upcoming Budget for 2026. He told a media briefing yesterday (27) that such an eventuality would cause a rise in vehicle prices, affecting all vehicle categories.

According to Manage, although overall vehicle prices have stabilised at present, that situation may be affected if the 15% discount is removed.