Sri Lanka Customs has once again exceeded its monthly revenue target, achieving the August goal ahead of schedule and marking the eighth consecutive month of surpassing expectations.
The target for August was set at Rs. 190.3 billion. By August 27, Customs had already collected Rs. 199.6 billion, with officials projecting revenue to cross Rs. 200 billion by the end of the day.
For 2026, Customs has been tasked with meeting a revenue target of Rs. 2,207 billion, 13.5% lower than last year’s figure due to anticipated declines in motor vehicle imports. Yet within the first eight months, the institution has already secured Rs. 1,832.7 billion, representing 83% of the annual goal.
Authorities attribute the strong performance to the easing of import restrictions imposed after the 2022 economic crisis, stabilization of reserves, and a gradual recovery in consumer demand. Enhanced enforcement, closer monitoring of undervaluation and misdeclarations, and improved valuation practices have also contributed significantly to boosting state income.
In 2025, Customs reported Rs. 2,557.535 billion in revenue, exceeding its target and reinforcing its role as the single largest contributor to Treasury income. Officials note that Customs continues to play a decisive role in helping the Government meet fiscal targets under the IMF‑supported program. (Newswire)