Customs Surpasses Target, But Risks Cloud 2025 Outlook
- CNL Reporter
- September 1, 2025
- News, Political
- Customs
- 0 Comments
Sri Lanka Customs (SLC) has already surpassed its 2025 revenue collection target of Rs. 2,115 billion by Rs. 142 billion, a record performance attributed to anti-corruption reforms and higher import taxes on vehicles. The milestone comes after last year’s Rs. 1,533 billion collection—the highest ever despite import restrictions.
Customs Director General Seevali Arukgoda credited institutional reforms and efficiency measures, including digital platforms such as ASYHUB and upcoming e-bidding systems. These are expected to enhance transparency, streamline clearance, and reduce scope for corruption.
Yet, concerns persist over whether SLC can sustain this pace. The government’s aggressive anti-corruption stance has left many officials hesitant to make decisions, leading to delays at Colombo Port and costly setbacks for transshipment trade.
Moreover, Customs revenue is highly dependent on imports, which remain vulnerable to domestic demand shocks and global trade uncertainty. While technological reforms may improve operations, their full impact will take years, with major initiatives like the Single Window system still in early stages.
Analysts warn that unless bottlenecks are addressed and morale restored within the institution, Sri Lanka’s revenue gains risk being short-lived.
