The Committee on Ways and Means of the Sri Lankan Parliament recently conducted an observation tour of the Sri Lanka Customs Headquarters and premises to identify the existing problems and weaknesses in the customs process.

The chairman of the committee, MP Patali Champika Ranawaka, and a group of members were present on the occasion.

The investigation was conducted in accordance with the powers vested in the Committee on Ways and Means to recommend positive measures, including increasing government revenue, by visiting the premises of relevant institutions and carrying out investigations in accordance with the standing orders of the Parliament.

During the tour, the committee members observed the activities of the Information Technology Division of the Customs Headquarters, the Container Scanning (Scan) Division located in the port area, and the Container Inspection Yard belonging to the Sri Lanka Customs located in Orugudawatta.

Ranawaka, the chairman of the committee, pointed out the need to use modern computer technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to provide efficient service and increase revenue by avoiding delays in the import and export process. He also highlighted the need to use Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to correct the existing weaknesses in the customs process.

The committee members are expected to submit a report to the Parliament with their findings and recommendations.