Hundreds of online followers criticized Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe after he revealed that local tyre producers had requested further import controls. They argued that the move could lead to exploitation of consumers in a manner reminiscent of the Rajapaksa administration’s protectionist policies.
The local tyre manufacturers had asked for import restrictions, claiming that there were “more than enough” locally made tyres available, and that this would allow prices to be lowered. Minister Samarasinghe shared this information in a Facebook post, highlighting that millions of dollars were being spent on imported tyres.
However, this request has sparked strong opposition. Critics argue that such a plan would limit competition, benefitting a few protectionist businesses at the expense of consumers. Many commenters urged Minister Samarasinghe to consider the interests of the public and resist being swayed by vested business interests.
In contrast to the pneumatic tyre makers, Sri Lanka’s solid tyre sector has been exporting its products from the outset, without seeking protection from imports or causing harm to local consumers.