John Keells CG Auto (JKCG) has strongly denied allegations claiming the company had prior knowledge of the government’s recent surcharge on imported motor vehicles and acted in advance by establishing Letters of Credit before the Gazette notification was issued.
In a statement released on May 22, 2026, JKCG said the allegations circulating publicly are “false” and clarified that no Letters of Credit were established for BYD vehicles on the day immediately before the Gazette notification No. 2488/56 dated May 15, 2026.
The company further stated that it had no prior or advanced knowledge regarding the temporary surcharge introduced on imported vehicles.
According to JKCG, the most recent orders related to BYD vehicles were placed between March and April 30, 2026, and no Letters of Credit had been established after that period, including throughout May 2026.
JKCG also emphasized that, as a major player in Sri Lanka’s vehicle market, it regularly places orders in the normal course of business and remains committed to transparency, good governance, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
The company added that it will continue serving customers responsibly within the prevailing regulatory framework.
