Govt clarifies new import monitoring rules (opens original article in a new tab)

The Sri Lankan government clarified that new import monitoring rules focus on tracking imports and preventing illegal foreign exchange outflows, not restricting trade.

• Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando stated that new import monitoring rules aim to track imports, not restrict them.
• Regulation requires detailed data collection from importers including addresses, bank accounts, and goods types.
• Banks must assign unique tracking numbers for each transaction to ensure transparency.
• The rules target illegal foreign exchange outflows through fraudulent shell companies.