Recent discussions on long-standing operational challenges at Colombo Port and Sri Lanka Customs concluded without any meaningful progress, according to industry sources. The trading community continues to face escalating clearing costs, with no clear limit on the financial burden imposed on clearing agents and importers.
Despite repeatedly raising practical concerns, stakeholders say there has been little positive or timely action from Sri Lanka Customs, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), and related institutions. As a result, some industry players are now considering trade actions, including refraining from processing online Customs Declarations (CUSDECs) or suspending container transport activities if conditions do not improve.
Clearing expenses have reportedly surged to as much as Rs. 250,000 per Full Container Load (FCL), including transport and container hold-up charges, due to persistent operational issues at Customs, the SLPA, RCT, and Grayline yards. Instead of implementing previously agreed solutions, additional container examinations and the diversion of cargo to vested yards are further delaying clearance.
Industry sources also raised concerns over monopolistic practices, alleging that extended yard operations are being granted to existing service providers without transparency or added value. Stakeholders have urged authorities to take immediate, practical, and positive action to facilitate trade and ease the financial strain on the genuine trading community.
Furthermore, a lack of decisive leadership across import and export-related Government agencies is contributing to ongoing challenges. Matters such as shipment cut-off extensions, cross-border Letter of Credit (LC) issues, shipment delays, and No Foreign Exchange (NFE) complications fall under the Controller of Imports and Exports, yet accountability is often directed at Sri Lanka Customs due to custody of goods.
Internal operational delays within Customs are also a concern. Even when senior officers issue instructions, these are reportedly delayed or challenged at junior levels. Department heads are said to be hesitant to take firm decisions, largely due to fear of future scrutiny.
Industry Call to Action:
Stakeholders are calling on authorities to act urgently to restore efficiency, transparency, and confidence in Sri Lanka’s trade and logistics systems.
Source : DailyFT
Despite repeatedly raising practical concerns, stakeholders say there has been little positive or timely action from Sri Lanka Customs, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), and related institutions. As a result, some industry players are now considering trade actions, including refraining from processing online Customs Declarations (CUSDECs) or suspending container transport activities if conditions do not improve.
Clearing expenses have reportedly surged to as much as Rs. 250,000 per Full Container Load (FCL), including transport and container hold-up charges, due to persistent operational issues at Customs, the SLPA, RCT, and Grayline yards. Instead of implementing previously agreed solutions, additional container examinations and the diversion of cargo to vested yards are further delaying clearance.
Industry sources also raised concerns over monopolistic practices, alleging that extended yard operations are being granted to existing service providers without transparency or added value. Stakeholders have urged authorities to take immediate, practical, and positive action to facilitate trade and ease the financial strain on the genuine trading community.
Furthermore, a lack of decisive leadership across import and export-related Government agencies is contributing to ongoing challenges. Matters such as shipment cut-off extensions, cross-border Letter of Credit (LC) issues, shipment delays, and No Foreign Exchange (NFE) complications fall under the Controller of Imports and Exports, yet accountability is often directed at Sri Lanka Customs due to custody of goods.
Internal operational delays within Customs are also a concern. Even when senior officers issue instructions, these are reportedly delayed or challenged at junior levels. Department heads are said to be hesitant to take firm decisions, largely due to fear of future scrutiny.
Industry Call to Action:
Stakeholders are calling on authorities to act urgently to restore efficiency, transparency, and confidence in Sri Lanka’s trade and logistics systems.
Source : DailyFT