Customs directed to expedite modernisation, support $ 36 b export goal
Sri Lanka Customs has been directed to accelerate modernisation efforts and strengthen export facilitation measures as part of the implementation of the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026-2030, with a view to supporting the country’s target of generating $ 36 billion in export earnings by 2030.The directives were issued during a discussion chaired by Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake last week, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).The meeting, organised by the Revenue Administration Reform and Modernisation Bureau, focused on reforms required within Sri Lanka Customs to facilitate export growth and improve the ease of doing business for exporters.Dr. Kumanayake instructed Customs to enhance the capacity, infrastructure and modernisation of the Export Facilitation Centre, where export containers are inspected, in order to create a more efficient and exporter-friendly operating environment.Discussions also centred on measures to broaden Sri Lanka’s exporter base, including initiatives to encourage new entrants into export markets. Particular attention was given to reviewing the Temporary Import for Export Processing (TIEP) scheme administered by the Customs Industrial Facilitation Division and developing targeted support programs for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are yet to engage in export activities.Officials also explored the possibility of decentralising customs operations to support export expansion, including the establishment of a Customs Export Centre in Jaffna.The meeting further examined challenges faced by exporters using e-commerce platforms. It was agreed that further discussions would be held with the Department of Posts to identify measures to streamline export-related processes in the sector.Among the other proposals discussed were the introduction of digital systems to expedite document processing and reduce compliance costs, as well as the implementation of a risk-based assessment framework to provide greater facilitation for low-risk exporters.It was also decided that Sri Lanka Customs, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and other relevant agencies would meet monthly under the leadership of the Revenue Administration Reform and Modernisation Bureau to monitor implementation progress, identify exporter concerns and develop solutions.The NEDP 2026-2030 has been formulated in line with the Government’s national vision, “A Thriving Nation - A Beautiful Life”, with the objective of improving Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness and increasing export earnings to $ 36 billion by 2030.Among those present were Director General of Customs Wimal Liyanagama, Sri Lanka Export Development Board Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe, Additional Directors General of Customs T. Loganathan and L.K.S.D.K. Arewatta, EDB Director Dr. Sanjeewa Rathnasekara, Revenue Administration Reform and Modernisation Bureau Director W.L.C. Thilakasiri, and senior officials from Customs and the EDB.
