Customs reform…

“It is a fact that there are some mechanisms to give you rewards, but ‘those mechanisms have their own weaknesses;’ he said.

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As a result, ‘when some sectors of officials are rewarded, that negatively affects the other sector.”Referring to what he termed ‘coercive ranks;’ Dr. Fernando said gaps in incentives and authority created space for bribery and allegations of misconduct ‘Always that window is open for perpetrator to bribe because of these coercive ranks’ he said adding that the gap could ‘be reduced by increasing your rewards in a very acceptable and vibrant manner.”

While noting that fiscal constraints persisted, he said discussions ‘were under way on improving salaries and benefits at Customs and other enforcement agencies. "We will be doing these things in the future, but we need some more time,’ he said, pointing to the need for ‘sustainable and inclusive economic growth’ to support such reforms.

Dr. Fernando also stressed that Customs mandate extended well beyond revenue collection to border security, public health food safety, and environmental protection — functions that often go unnoticed. ‘If there’s a delay, the accusation comes in,’ he said. But people do not see how much pain is taken by Customs officers to release goods within a short period of time.’”

He cited vigilance against dangerous and illicit items as evidence that Customs’ role ‘goes beyond revenue collection” adding;” Our vigilance is highly commended, especially in drugs and other things.”

The comments come as Sri Lanka Customs reports record revenue performance alongside renewed reform momentum.

Sri Lanka Customs Director General Seevali Arukgoda said the Department had concluded ‘the most successful year in its institutional history’ combining revenue growth with trade facilitation and social protection.