🚗 JKCG Denies Prior Knowledge of Vehicle Import Surcharge

John Keells CG Auto (JKCG) has officially rejected public allegations claiming it had advance information regarding the temporary surcharge imposed on imported motor vehicles ahead of the government’s Gazette notification on May 15, 2026. • The Allegations: Reports suggested that certain importers, including JKCG, rushed to open Letters of Credit (LCs) for vehicles on the day immediately preceding Gazette notification No. 2488/56. • Company Clarification: JKCG categorically denied these claims, stating it had no prior knowledge of the policy and opened no LCs for BYD vehicles on the day before the announcement. • Order Timeline: The company clarified that its most recent orders for BYD vehicles were placed between March and April 30, 2026. Factually, no LCs were established after that date, including throughout May 2026. • Operational Stance: JKCG emphasized that its procurement follows regular, ordinary business courses and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, good governance, and regulatory compliance within the automotive sector.