Opposition MP Harsha de Silva has warned the government that vehicle imports will be risky as vehicle prices have shot up significantly and that the expected tax revenue might not be achieved.
Briefing the Parliament today on current vehicle prices, the MP said a Toyota Raize costs Rs. 12.2 million, a Toyota Yaris Rs. 18.5 million and a Prius Rs. 28.9 million.
“A big issue has arisen due to this. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in his budget speech stated that the majority of tax revenue is expected from vehicle imports. The Gross Domestic Product needs to increase by about 1.6% and a part of that comes from vehicle imports. Therefore, vehicle imports are highly risky,” he said.
MP Harsha de Silva questioned who can afford vehicles at the current prices, pointing out there are no such people in the country who can afford to purchase vehicles at such rates.
Citing these factors, the MP said vehicle imports are very risky under the current circumstances. (Newswire)