Former UNP National Secretary and Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake has criticized the high vehicle prices in Sri Lanka, stating that vehicles sold for around 2 million in other countries are priced at nearly 20 million locally.
Speaking at a media briefing on the government’s inaugural budget, he also addressed the issue of vehicle imports.
He stated:
“I do not share the popular opinion on vehicle imports. The well-being of over 50 million people matters more than that of 200,000 individuals. If we are to import vehicles, our priority should be vehicles that benefit the general public.”
“Currently, a vehicle that costs 2 million abroad is being sold for nearly 20 million here. Instead of allowing such inflated prices, we should have focused on importing vehicles that are truly useful to the people. However, these imports must be handled with great caution.”