The Cabinet has approved a proposal to allow Sri Lankan migrant workers to import vehicles based on the amount remitted through official banking channels.
The proposal provides migrant workers to purchase electric vehicles, including motorcycles.
Sri Lankan migrant workers who have remitted US$ 3000 will be permitted to import an electric motorcycle for half of that value.
However, permission has not been granted for the imports of three-wheelers.
“With the current situation in the country, vehicles are not allowed to be imported to Sri Lanka in any way. That is why a vehicle import license is introduced for foreign workers. here, if you have sent more than 3000 dollars to your own or a relative’s account through a bank, they can buy an electric motorcycle for half of the money sent. $3000 is the lowest value. This permission is not available for three-wheelers.” Foreign Employement Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said.
“Accordingly, electric vehicles are allowed to be imported from $20,000 to a maximum of $65,000. These imported vehicles should be in the running range of 300-500. It has to be charged by the solar power system and it has to be arranged by oneself or imported. These vehicles are not allowed to be charged by the national system” Minister added.
“This is expected to achieve the main objectives of increasing the import of dollars into the country and reducing the withdrawal of dollars abroad, without affecting the mainstream and protecting the environment” Minister Nanayakkara concluded. (NewsWire)