Minister of Trade Dr. Bandula Gunawardana has dismissed recent claims which alleged that the government has imposed a ban on the importation of 623 goods. In a statement issued today (Sep. 10), the minister stated that the Opposition is attempting to the mislead the public through such reports. The minister said the Central Bank’s decision came at a time when flawed foreign exchange management policy of the previous government, the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks and COVID-19 pandemic had driven the country to a foreign exchange crisis. Explaining new import restrictions, Minister Gunawardana noted that an import ban has not been imposed on these 623 goods which include air conditioners, electric fans, refrigerators and freezers, nor has the percentage of tax levied on these items been increased. Hence, there will be no increase in the prices of these goods, he added.

Source: The Nation September 10, 2021 15:56 UTC