Ports Minister urges swift action for Customs Ordinance revision

Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Nimal Siripala De Silva emphasised the importance of addressing issues promptly to facilitate timely and effective revision of the Customs Ordinance of 1870.
De Silva, chairing the Committee tasked with revising the Customs Ordinance, said that the committee submitted its report recently.

“To ensure the expeditious completion of this task, it is essential to address all bottlenecks and obstacles,” the Minister said at the 7th Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Association of NVOCC Agents (SLANA) held in Colombo last Friday.

He also highlighted several recommendations for amending laws to enhance the efficiency of the Colombo Port.
As per the proposals, Sri Lanka Customs officials must complete their inquiries within three months.
The Minister further recommended that appeals should be heard by an independent tribunal rather than another officer.
He emphasised the need for innovative legislation to boost the country’s maritime sector.