Customs should be fully automated - PB

Rasika Somarathna

The Customs Department should move towards paperless transactions on imports/ exports as the country had to compete with its fast developing neighbours in Asia that have already moved to that stage, Treasury Secretary Dr. P. B. Jayasundera said.

He was speaking at an event organized by the Customs to celebrate the International Customs Day at its new headquarters in Colombo Fort. Dr. Jayasundera was of the view that a fully automated system will help Customs improve efficiency of services in its day-to-day transactions and minimise human error.

The implementation of the E-Customs project coupled with ASYCUDA software, which has the capability of receiving documents through the web and processing them with minimal human intervention will help in this regard, he added. According to Customs, ASYCUDA is a computerised Customs management system which covers most foreign trade procedures. The system handles customs declarations, accounting procedures, transit and suspense procedures.

ASYCUDA takes into account the international codes and standards developed by ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation), WCO (World Customs Organization) and the United Nations. ASYCUDA can be configured to suit the national characteristics of individual Customs regimes, National Tariff, legislation.

Dr. Jayasundersa told customs officers that their service was needed by the country more than ever at a time when Sri Lanka was looking forward to rapid development.

Whilst mentioning the Customs has been providing the lions' share of revenue to the state Dr. Jayasundera stated that officers also should keep in mind that Customs also was a unique ambassadorial service for the state.

He reminded those present that Custom officers are often one of the first points of contact for a visiting tourist, investor, businessman, migrant worker etc. and their conduct may leave lasting impressions about the country and its people.

He said that this year's theme for International Customs Day - "Innovation for Customs Progress" was most opportune and urged the Sri Lanka Customs to adopt innovative means to improve efficiency in processes for better facilitation of global trade, investment, tourism and employment.

Customs Director General Jagath P Wijeweera too addressed the gathering.