A high‑level discussion on the functioning of the Internal Affairs Units established within state institutions and the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan 2025–2029 was held at the Presidential Secretariat recently (29).

The meeting, held under the patronage of the Secretary to the President, Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, focused on advancing Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption efforts, particularly within key revenue-generating and revenue-collecting institutions, namely the Sri Lanka Customs, the Inland Revenue Department, and the Department of Excise.

According to the President’s Office, during the discussion, the measures currently being implemented to strengthen anti-corruption initiatives and foster a culture of integrity within these institutions were reviewed. 

Attention was also given to future initiatives aimed at further reinforcing ethical governance and promoting a stronger culture of integrity across these organisations. (Newswire)

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The open competitive examination for recruitment to the post of Assistant Superintendent of Customs Grade II of the Sri Lanka Customs Department has now been gazetted.

The application form has been published on the website https://applications.doenets.lk/exams, and this time applications can only be submitted online.

The closing date for accepting applications is June 8, 2026.

According to a report by BBC Sinhala, Sri Lanka Customs media spokesman Chandana Punchihewa stated that through this examination, it is expected to recruit between 150 to 160 candidates for the post of Assistant Superintendent of Customs.

He said that since Sri Lanka Customs is a large state institution consisting of various subject areas, it is important that applicants with degrees in different fields apply.

As examples, he pointed out that knowledge in law, information technology, finance and management, archaeology, science (such as zoology and botany), etc., is essential for Customs. In addition, knowledge regarding natural resources such as gems is also important.

• Required Qualifications:

1. The applicant must be a Sri Lankan citizen of “excellent character” and be not less than 21 years and not more than 35 years of age on the closing date of applications.
2. Physical fitness requirements: For male applicants, height must not be less than 5 feet 5 inches, and chest (expanded) must not be less than 33 inches. For female applicants, height must not be less than 5 feet 3 inches.
3. Educational qualifications: Completion of a degree course of not less than 3 years from a university recognized by the University Grants Commission or from an institution recognized as a degree‑awarding institution. Applicants awaiting degree results are not eligible. However, if an applicant has completed the degree and can produce an official letter from the Registrar of the university, they may sit for the exam.
4. GCE Ordinary Level (O/L) requirement: At least a credit pass in English language. Or at GCE Advanced Level (A/L), at least a simple pass in English language.

• About the Examination:  

The competitive examination will be held only in Colombo in August.

It consists of two papers:

1. Aptitude Test — Duration 1 hour, 100 marks. Tests language proficiency and reasoning ability. Contains 50 compulsory questions in multiple-choice and short-answer format.
2. English Language — Duration 1 hour 30 minutes, 100 marks. Tests writing, reading, comprehension, and communication skills. All questions must be answered.

The exam can be applied for in Sinhala, Tamil, or English medium, and once chosen, the medium cannot be changed later.

• Marking:  

The total marks for both papers is 200. To pass, a minimum of 50% must be obtained in each paper. Candidates who achieve this will be ranked according to their total marks, and twice the number of vacancies will be shortlisted.

Although passing requires minimum marks, recruitment will be based on competitive scores, so candidates should aim for the highest marks. Results will be released via www.results.exams.gov.lk.

• Interview Marks:  

Candidates who pass the written exam will face an interview, where marks are awarded for sports skills and other abilities based on valid certificates. Sports below the under‑17 level will not be considered.

From those with the highest combined marks in written and interview, candidates equal to the number of vacancies will be appointed as Assistant Superintendents of Customs. Up to 10% of the approved vacancies are reserved for female officers.

Those recruited as Assistant Superintendents of Customs will later have opportunities, based on qualifications and experience, to be promoted to Deputy Superintendent, Deputy Director, Senior Deputy Director, Director, and Additional Director General of Customs.

• How to Apply:  

The online application must be completed only in English via the link https://applications.doenets.lk/exams. 

It is very important to read the instruction sheet provided under “instructions” before applying. Applicants will be notified via SMS or email whether their application has been accepted as valid. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Customs has announced that from June 2025, it will start naming individuals and companies engaging in tax evasion.

Customs Media Spokesperson Seevali Arukgoda said the names of individuals and institutions found to be violating the Customs Ordinance and engaging in tax evasion will be published.

Seevali Arukgoda further said that information on those found guilty will be available on the Sri Lanka Customs official website. 

He added that the move aims to curb tax fraud, ensure accurate tax collection, and prevent future violations. (Newswire)

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