Sri Lanka Customs has announced plans to auction or sell through a tender process approximately 1,025 imported vehicles that remain unclaimed at the Hambantota Port.
Customs Media Spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa said nearly 625 of the vehicles have remained at the port for more than six months without being cleared by their importers.
He clarified that the vehicles are not subject to any customs law violations, but importers have failed to complete the necessary procedures to release them.
Accordingly, Customs will proceed with the auction or tender process under Section 129 of the Customs Ordinance.
Under the Customs Ordinance, imported goods must be cleared within one month after the payment of applicable duties and other charges. If they remain unclaimed beyond the prescribed period, Customs is authorised to dispose of the goods and recover outstanding government taxes and other dues.
Punchihewa further stated that the proceeds from the sale will first be used to settle government taxes, port charges and warehouse fees. Any remaining balance will be returned to the respective importer.
He added that Customs is prepared to review individual cases if importers provide valid reasons explaining why the vehicles could not be released within the required period.
