In February 2025, Sri Lanka Customs exceeded its revenue target by 28 percent, collecting 212.4 billion rupees against a target of 160.2 billion rupees, according to official data. This marks a substantial increase, with the Customs department accelerating container clearance in response to disruptions caused by the Ditwah devastation in November, which impacted operations for several days amid increased imports in December.
By March 21, Customs had already achieved 21.5 percent of the annual revenue target within the first 62 days of the year. Last year, the department collected a record 2,551 billion rupees, surpassing the revised target of 2,241 billion rupees and achieving 64.2 percent higher revenue than the previous year’s total of 1,553 million rupees.
The revenue target for this year is set at 2,207 billion rupees, which is 13.5 percent lower than the previous year due to an anticipated decline in car imports. The surge in revenue can be attributed to enhanced enforcement measures, improved valuation practices, and a rebound in import volumes following years of decline.
Following the economic crisis of 2022, imports had significantly decreased as the country implemented restrictions to conserve foreign exchange. However, with the stabilization of reserves, the easing of certain import controls, and a recovery in consumer demand, collections from import duties, excise, and other levies have increased.
Officials highlight that stricter monitoring of under-invoicing and misdeclaration of goods has also contributed to the boost in state revenue. The combined effects of increased import activity, currency fluctuations, and stringent enforcement have positioned Customs as a leading revenue source for the Treasury in 2025, providing essential support as the state strives to meet fiscal targets under the IMF-supported program.
(Colombo/March 08/2026)
