Sri Lanka, Aug. 19 -- The Chairman of the Vehicle Importers Association of Lanka (VIAL), Indika Sampath Merenchige, has revealed that more than 10,000 vehicles are currently held up at Sri Lankan ports due to significant clearance and documentation delays.

According to Merenchige:

8,726 vehicles have been held at ports for less than 45 days since August 15.

An additional 751 vehicles have been stuck for over 45 days since February 1.

About 200 vehicles imported before February 1 are still uncleared at Hambantota Port.

While Customs officials have increased clearance efforts releasing approximately 2,000 vehicles between August 15 and 18 Merenchige noted that around 5,000 vehicles remain delayed.

An additional 5,000 vehicles are expe...