Sri Lanka Customs has launched a special programme to expedite container clearance at the Colombo Port, addressing ongoing delays.
The initiative, introduced under the President’s directives, successfully cleared 459 containers yesterday, including 242 that underwent inspection at key yards.
Despite Customs’ capacity to process 500 containers daily, a shortage of clearing agents and lorry drivers has slowed clearance rates.
As of this morning, 496 containers with issued door permits remain at the port awaiting inspection, adding to the backlog.
An additional 603 cleared containers are still uncollected by importers, contributing to storage congestion at port terminals.
Customs and other state agencies are working through the public holiday to accelerate clearance, reduce congestion, and improve overall port efficiency.
