January 19, Colombo (LNW): A growing backlog of imported salt has emerged at the Port of Colombo, with more than 1,000 containers reportedly sitting in port warehouses for over six months after missing the officially approved import window.
In a related issue, close to 700 additional containers are said to be under the custody of Sri Lanka Customs after failing quality checks and facing prolonged delays in certification from the Sri Lanka Standards Institution. These consignments cannot be released until regulatory requirements are met.
The imports stem from a temporary decision by the government last year to allow private traders to bring in salt to ease a nationwide shortage. That permission was formalised through a gazette notification, which clearly stated that all imports had to be completed by June 10, 2025.
Despite the deadline, several importers continued to ship consignments beyond the permitted period. As a result, large volumes of salt remain stacked at port facilities, contributing to congestion and administrative complications.
Customs Director and Media Spokesman Chandana Punchihewa confirmed that authorities are enforcing the gazette provisions without exception. He noted that importers had been instructed to re-export the delayed consignments, but many have yet to comply. Adding a legal dimension to the dispute, at least one company involved has reportedly sought judicial intervention.
Sri Lanka Ports Authority Chairman Sirimevan Ranasinghe said discussions are ongoing among relevant stakeholders to find a practical resolution, while balancing regulatory compliance and port efficiency.
Meanwhile, amid a noticeable rise in import, export and re-export cargo volumes, Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilake has directed officials to act swiftly to reduce congestion that is affecting routine operations and cargo clearance.
At a recent meeting, authorities agreed to accelerate clearance procedures by diverting low-risk containers to the SLPA-managed Bloemendhal Container Yard, under the full supervision of Sri Lanka Customs.
