Customs 24 X 7 operation:

'We want to see real action not rhetoric'

by Lalin Fernandopulle

Sri Lanka Customs (SLC) which is under constant criticism for lethargy and bribe-taking has awakened to a long overdue need which is round-the-clock operation to instill efficiency and productivity and spin revenue for government coffers.

The SLC launched the 24 X 7 operation to stimulate speed in delivery and save the productive time of the corporate sector.

Trade sector experts hailed the move as a timely initiative on which the SLC should not drag its feet in implementing the system.

"We want to see real action and not rhetoric as is the case in many fancy initiatives in the country where only shrubs are found in several groundbreaking initiatives. The full time operation of the Customs is sound move which should be sustained," a trade expert said.

SLC, DG Jagath Wijeweera while praising the higher authorities for initiating the move said that it could also be a opportunity for full-time fraudsters. However, the Sri Lanka Customs is geared to nab culprits with its competent enforcement and intelligent units.

"It is a huge challenge to get such a system off the ground as there are many critics to oppose whatever you do.

We tried to open the office on holidays but failed desperately due to resistance from within because of lethargy and hesitancy to work during the nights and on holidays. This move will facilitate trade and reduce valuable human hours on documentation and delivery," Wijeweera said.

The public are constantly inconvenienced due to the traffic congestion at the Ingurukade junction due to the capacity crunch and time limitations. The Customs has opened full time-payment and examination centres for quick clearance.

Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), Chairman Dr. Lakdas Panagoda said that many teething issues will arise as a result of the new system but we need to address them considering the numerous benefits to the industry. 24X7 is not a novel concept for the SLPA as many major ports operate around-the-clock. "We hope to add more banks to the system for a speedy service. The Colombo South Harbour is an emerging habour in the region. We hope to promote more vibrant private-public partnerships to strengthen operations," he said.

Treasury Secretary Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga said that the Customs has upgraded programs, automation and human resources in keeping with global changes. Trade to GDP ratio in Sri Lanka is at an unsatisfactory level compared to many poorer countries in the region. The full time operation of the Customs will provide an impetus to trade growth.

"Sri Lanka cannot be isolated from the rest of the world.

It has to work in tandem with others. If not it will stand to lose," Dr. Samaratunga said.

Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Import Section, Chairman Dinesh de Silva said that the new move of the Customs will improve flexibility and ease of doing business index.

It will help reduce the country's carbon footprint and man-hours lost on roads and support the business community.