Sri Lanka approves regulations to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals

Sri Lanka's cabinet has approved new import and export regulations aimed at phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), a chemical compound commonly found in refrigerators and air conditioning units.

The move is in line with the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by gradually eliminating the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. HCFCs are known for their potential to deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming.

Under the new regulations, the import of equipment that operates solely with HCFCs will be prohibited starting June 6, 2026. Furthermore, from January 1, 2028, the import of compressors for refrigeration systems that use HCFCs will also be banned. These regulations were published in an extraordinary gazette on May 7, 2026, under the Import and Export (Control) Act.

The proposal to present these regulations to parliament for approval was submitted by the President in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Economic Stabilization, and National Policies.