Sri Lanka Customs reaches 95% of 2026 revenue target

Sri Lanka Customs has collected approximately Rs 2.1 trillion by the end of September, reaching over 95 percent of its total revenue target for 2026. This performance marks the ninth consecutive month that the department has exceeded its monthly revenue benchmarks.

The surge in collections is attributed to several factors, including a 24.1 percent increase in merchandise imports during the first eight months of the year, totaling approximately US$16.56 billion. The removal of restrictions on vehicle imports, which accounted for US$1.68 billion, and higher international prices for fuel have also significantly boosted revenue.

This consistent revenue generation is viewed as a positive indicator for Sri Lanka’s broader economic recovery and fiscal stabilization efforts. Meeting these targets is particularly critical as the country works to fulfill debt management commitments under its International Monetary Fund programme.