📈 Customs to Auction Over 1,000 Uncleared Vehicles at Hambantota Port

• Key Action: Sri Lanka Customs is preparing to dispose of approximately 1,025 imported vehicles stranded at Hambantota Port via public auction or tender under Section 129 of the Customs Ordinance. • Duration & Compliance: About 625 vehicles have remained uncleared for over six months. Official Spokesman Chandana Punchihewa confirmed the vehicles carry no customs violations; disposal is required as importers failed to complete clearance within the statutory one-month limit post duty/tax payment. • Financial Recovery: Revenue generated will first settle outstanding government taxes, with remaining funds allocated toward port and warehouse fees. Any excess balance thereafter will be returned to the importers. • Appeals: Customs will consider written requests and valid justifications for clearance delays on an individual, case-by-case basis.