In January 2025, Sri Lanka Customs surpassed its revenue target by 45%, collecting 232.6 billion rupees against a set target of 160.2 billion rupees, according to official data. This notable achievement follows accelerated container clearance efforts initiated in response to disruptions caused by the Ditwah devastation in November, which affected operations for at least four days amid increased imports in December.

Last year, Sri Lanka Customs reached a record revenue collection of 2,551 billion rupees, exceeding a revised target of 2,241 billion rupees and marking a 64.2% increase over the previous year’s revenue of 1,553 million rupees. For the current year, Customs has set a revenue target of 2,207 billion rupees, reflecting a 13.5% decrease from the previous year, primarily due to an anticipated decline in car imports.

The substantial rise in Customs revenue is attributed to stronger enforcement, enhanced valuation practices, and a resurgence in import volumes following years of contraction. After the economic crisis of 2022, imports plummeted as the country implemented measures to conserve foreign exchange. However, with the stabilization of reserves, the relaxation of certain import controls, and a steady recovery in consumer demand, collections from import duties, excise, and other levies have increased.

Officials highlight that improved monitoring of under-invoicing and misdeclaration of goods has also significantly boosted state revenue. The convergence of increased import activity, currency fluctuations, and stricter enforcement has established Customs as a leading revenue source for the Treasury in 2025, providing essential support as the government strives to meet fiscal targets under the IMF-supported program.

(Colombo/February 02/2026)