Treasury Secretary recognises Customs officers for revenue collection efforts

Treasury Secretary Harshana Suriyapperuma has commended Sri Lanka Customs officers for their contribution to government revenue collection, following the department’s achievement of exceeding its annual revenue target for 2026 ahead of schedule.

Speaking at a ceremony held at the Customs Department yesterday (22) to recognise the contributions of Customs officers, Suriyapperuma highlighted the importance of their efforts in maintaining the country’s economic stability.

According to the Ministry of Finance, Sri Lanka Customs exceeded its annual revenue target of Rs. 2,207 billion for 2026, collecting Rs. 2,208 billion by October 13.

The department’s revenue continued to increase, reaching Rs. 2,286 billion as of October 21.

The Ministry stated that Sri Lanka Customs had exceeded its monthly revenue targets throughout 2026, achieving a higher annual revenue target within a shorter period compared to 2025, when the target was reached on November 11.

Addressing the gathering, the Treasury Secretary stated that revenue collected by Customs officers would be utilised for public welfare, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, future investments and emergency relief.

He further stated that revenue collected by institutions such as Sri Lanka Customs had supported the government’s ability to allocate Rs. 500 billion to respond to the Ditwah disaster and provide relief against rising fuel prices linked to the Middle East conflict.

Suriyapperuma also highlighted the importance of efficient government revenue collection in strengthening economic stability, noting that international credit rating agencies consider such factors when assessing Sri Lanka’s creditworthiness.

Meanwhile, he emphasised the need to modernise Customs operations through technology, improve information sharing among relevant institutions and strengthen measures to prevent fraudulent activities.

He noted that Sri Lanka Customs had successfully implemented its paperless Customs declaration programme despite initial challenges.

Speaking at the event, Director General of Sri Lanka Customs Wimal Liyanagamage attributed the achievement to the dedication and professional expertise of Customs officers.

He also expressed appreciation for the leadership and support provided by the President, the Deputy Ministers of Finance and the Treasury Secretary in strengthening the department’s operations. (Newswire)

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