Strong start to 2026: Customs January revenue exceeds estimates

By Charithya Kumarasiri

Colombo, Feb. 3 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Customs (SLC) has recorded a strong start to 2026, generating Rs. 232,558 million in revenue in January significantly surpassing the estimated target of Rs. 160,242 million.

The robust performance underscores the institution’s growing contribution to government revenue at a time when the country continues to navigate post-crisis fiscal pressures. The January outturn reflects improved collection efficiency and sustained import-related revenues.

January 2026 figures also indicate a notable year-on-year increase. In January 2025, Sri Lanka Customs collected Rs. 142,590 million, marginally above the estimated Rs. 142,000 million. This followed Rs. 125,480 million in revenue in January 2024, exceeding the projected Rs. 116,324 million for that period.

Building on this upward trajectory, Sri Lanka Customs recorded a historic milestone in 2025 by posting a record annual revenue of Rs. 2,557.535 billion the highest in the institution’s history further cementing its pivotal role in supporting national finances.