Scrap metal exports to be curbed

Irangika Range and Sandasen Marasinghe

Limitations will be imposed on the export of scrap metal to strengthen the local industries through new regulations under the Import and Exports (Control) Act No. 1 of 1969, Deputy Finance Minister Chandrasiri Gajadeera told Parliament yesterday.

Tabling new regulations under the Import and Exports (Control) Act, the Minister said this will vastly benefit 8,000 small and medium scale local entrepreneurs engaged in the metal industry.

There are 13 main industries where over 300,000 employees work utilising scrap metal for their products.

Therefore, with the imposition of limitations on scrap metal exports their employment will be secured.

The export licence in respect of metals will be issued only upon obtaining the recommendations of the Industrial Development Ministry Secretary.

Meanwhile, several restrictions have also been imposed on the imports of chemicals through these new regulations of the Act.

We have already identified 38 chemicals which are necessary for local industries. Except these 38 chemicals, no other item can be imported hereafter, he said.

The Deputy Minister said a number of chemicals enter the country without any permission and proper standards. Therefore, it is necessary to control the import and use of them since certain chemicals were used to manufacture harmful products. In addition, new regulations were also brought to standardise the local tooth brush manufacturing industry.

Regulations under Import and Export (Control) Act were passed in Parliament.