Import controls temporary, central bank chief says

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s recent import controls are temporary and can be removed when the external situation improves, Central Bank Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe said.

“These are temporary measures,” Governor Weerasinghe said at a forum to promote inward remittances through a new application.

“We have to conserve limited resources. As the situation improves we can remove these controls.”

Some items like vehicles, fridges are not immediately essential, and can be delayed he said.

“There will be impact on businesses,” Governor Weerasinghe said.

The latest import bans, especially on machine parts and some industrial items has caused concern.

Concerns have also been raised on some material affecting small businesses including carpentry.