Sri Lanka Customs implements paperless declaration process

Sri Lanka Customs has transitioned to a paperless declaration process, ending the acceptance of manual customs declarations. As of October 1, importers and declarants are required to submit CusDecs and all supporting documentation, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading, electronically using valid digital signatures via the ASYCUDA system.

The new digital framework is intended to reduce the need for traders and brokers to physically transport documents to customs counters. The system includes features to detect alterations to digitally signed documents, which is expected to provide an audit trail to help prevent fraud and corruption while allowing for more efficient, risk-based inspections of shipments.