Vehicle market opening strictly on govt’s direction – CMTA

Virann De Zoysa

It has been noted that certain vehicle import groups are making strong and definite statements about market opening and representing the government direction. These have been made on national news and are highly inflammatory as the industry must wait for the government to announce such decisions and not individuals, opined Chairman, Ceylon Motor Traders Association (CMTA) Virann De Zoysa.

“As a recognized association with over 100 years of history and affiliation to the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce we strongly object to this type of unethical behaviour which disrupts the market and impacts the thousands of vehicle owners as market prices of used vehicles will fluctuate as a result. These types of irresponsible statements must have consequences,” De Zoysa cautioned. With regards to the plans for opening of the market he said they have advocated a policy that will maximize government revenue, minimize forex outflow and ensure a safe high quality suitable product is imported for the consumer. These products can be brand new or used vehicles from Japan and other countries, however there has to be regulation that ensures the objectives of the government are balanced in line with the needs of the people.

”We have also come across news stories of vehicle imports of up to 7 years. We feel this idea is in place to provide consumers with affordable vehicles. While this may be true we will be providing vehicles which are older than those already in Sri Lanka as the import ban has been in place for 5 Years.

De Zoyza said if the objective is affordable cars then a revised taxation policy must be considered on the vehicles but not sacrifice the quality by approving up to 7 year old vehicles which will have over 150,000 km driven mileage and require significant refurbishment.

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