Solutions to the existing problems for farmers, vehicle importers, and those whose vehicle ownership has changed, due to QR.

The government has officially implemented the National Fuel Pass system, also known as the QR code system, for fuel distribution across the island starting yesterday (15). However, the Department of Agrarian Development has decided to provide fuel to farmers for agricultural activities outside of that quota, and the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has given its full consent for this, according to its Commissioner, Mr. Dhammika Ranatunga.

According to the new agreements, necessary fuel will be provided to farmers targeting upcoming seasons. Under this, farmers engaged in harvesting activities during the 2025/26 Maha season are scheduled to receive 15 liters of fuel per acre. Furthermore, the Commissioner emphasized that arrangements have been made to provide 20 liters of fuel per acre to farmers preparing land for cultivation during the Yala season.

Meanwhile, the Vehicle Importers' Association of Sri Lanka revealed at a press conference held today (16) that vehicle importers in the country are facing a severe crisis with the implementation of the new fuel distribution system. Its president, Mr. Prasad Manage, pointed out that these fuel restrictions have severely impacted them, given that 100 to 150 vehicles imported monthly to the Hambantota Port have to be transported to Colombo. For this reason, he stated that they are requesting the government to introduce a special QR system or a separate fuel quota for newly imported vehicles, and that their association is ready to discuss this with the authorities.

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation states that efforts are currently underway to overcome the technical errors that have arisen with the implementation of the new system. Its Managing Director, Mr. Mayura Nettikumara, speaking to the media today, stated that the problems of individuals who were unable to register in the system, especially due to changes in vehicle numbers and phone numbers, are being resolved expeditiously.