US helps Sri Lanka Customs to develop trade potential
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Picture shows a Sri Lanka Customs official receiving her certificate.
Legal experts from the US Department of Commerce and US Customs and Border Protection collaborated with 20 senior officials from Sri Lanka Customs in Colombo last week on reforming customs procedures to enhance trade. The effort seeks to improve efficiency and transparency for businesses, allowing Sri Lanka to develop more fully its export potential and advance investment opportunities, the US embassy said in a media statement. “The United States is working at all levels in Sri Lanka – government, private sector, and development groups – to help strengthen the economy for the benefit of all Sri Lankans,” said US Ambassador Atul Keshap.
“These reforms will send important signals to the trade community that Sri Lanka is open for business.”The 3-day workshop, provided in cooperation with the US Embassy, will also better position Sri Lanka to meet its commitment under the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Trade Facilitation. The sessions addressed issues key to Sri Lanka realising its export-led development plan, including advance rulings, valuation and classification, and customs appeals. In addition, the U.S. experts held a one-day training for 30 District Court and Magistrate Judges who commonly hear customs appeals.