Over 50 containers held up at the port, claim traders

More than 50 containers carrying flour, cosmetic items, turmeric and food items imported by local traders have reportedly been held up at the Colombo Port.

Among the items are artificial garlands and other items used at temple functions.

Artificial garland importers said their business had been affected with temple functions coming up.

They said they believed as some of the containers had items coming under import restrictions, the Customs had detained the containers until further checks were carried out.

However, Customs Director General P.B.S.C. Nonis told the Sunday Times no containers had been detained, but there was a delay due to the heavy container traffic and intense checking in view of the import restrictions.