Over 1,000 containers of imported salt have been held at Colombo Port warehouses for more than six months, following the expiry of the approved import period.
In addition, nearly 700 containers of salt are reportedly being detained by Sri Lanka Customs due to substandard quality and delays in approval by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI).
To address the salt shortage that affected the country last year, the government had permitted private importers to bring in salt. A gazette notification was issued, stipulating that all salt imports must be completed before June 10, 2025.
However, importers reportedly continued to bring in salt after the deadline, and these consignments are now stored at port facilities.
Responding to an inquiry by Ada Derana, Customs Director and Media Spokesman Chandana Punchihewa stated that authorities are acting strictly in accordance with the gazette notification. He added that importers were instructed to re-export the salt consignments but have failed to take the necessary steps.
Meanwhile, one of the companies involved has filed a court case related to the matter.
Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), Sirimevan Ranasinghe, told Ada Derana that discussions are ongoing to resolve the issue.
With a rise in the number of import, export, and re-export containers at the port, Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilake has instructed officials to take necessary measures to reduce congestion affecting operations and clearance activities.
During a recent discussion, the Minister issued directives to expedite clearance operations, including directing low-risk containers to the Bloemendhal Container Yard, which is under the full supervision of the Customs Department.
