CMTA warns of further Rs. 40 billion revenue leakage in 2026, calls for urgent removal of 15% depreciation

The Ceylon Motor Traders’ Association (CMTA), the senior-most automotive association in Sri Lanka affiliated with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, has issued an urgent appeal to the government to abolish the 15% depreciation currently granted on used vehicle imports, warning that the concession is causing massive revenue leakages at a time when the country can least afford them.

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The Association estimates that the existing depreciation mechanism resulted in approximately Rs. 40 billion in lost government revenue in 2025 alone. If corrective action is not taken immediately, a similar level of revenue leakage could occur in 2026, further impacting the government's fiscal position and depriving the country of much-needed funds for national development and public services.

The Association notes that loopholes within the existing system have created opportunities for misuse, resulting not only in unfair advantages for certain importers but also in substantial losses to government revenue. Addressing these abuses, alongside the removal of the 15% depreciation concession, is essential to ensuring greater transparency, strengthening regulatory oversight, and protecting the integrity of Sri Lanka's vehicle import sector.