ICTA empowers Import Export Control Department to fast track trade procedures

Facilitating trade is key to enhance a country’s standing in the global economy and improve overall competitiveness. Over the years, Sri Lanka has taken various initiatives to simplify and rationalise procedural complexities for both imports and exports putting in place effective mechanisms.The Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) in collaboration with the Import and Export Control Department (IECD) recently developed an online license issuing and debiting system to further simplify and accelerate procedures. 

Via the system importers/exporters can now apply for animport/export license, debit note or an amendment online and the department records will be updated accordingly. 

The new online portal was launched by Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrema and State Minister of International Trade Sujeewa Senasinghe in the presence of other government officials.

Addressing the gathering, State Minister Senasinghe said: “As we journey towards taking this country to great heights,developing the import and export climate is paramount. The government has taken major steps to increase international trade for Sri Lanka. The IECD plays an important role in this. The department not only greatly benefits by being online but helps all those involved due to it being convenient and computerised. Especially individuals can benefit, as they do not have to personally meet people but can proceed with their requirements online.”

“Additionally, the Government hopes to digitalise several key agencies and ensure they are interconnected. I place my thanks for all those involved in this process and as this will contribute immensely to the country’s development. We hope these improvements will result in our ‘Ease of Doing Business’ ranking reaching 70 and the momentum drive the country to great heights and increase our exports further,” Senasinghe added.

Prior to the launch, both importers/exporters and the department faced numerous challenges including time spent on manual applications, the requirement of personally being present at the department to lodge applications and fill documentation, time lost due to tedious back and forth communication, crowded offices and increasing importer complaints.

As phase one of the project, the portal provides importers/exporters easy access to information, lodging of applications at one’s convenience -  even 24/7, quicker approvals, online receipt of import licenses, ease in monitoring the process and receivingtimely email notifications.

The new system will help streamline processes, improve transparency, showcase IECD’s commitment and efficiency and contribute to generate more revenue as a result of increased importer compliance levels and also a possible increase in the volumes of imported goods as a result of reduced delays.

 “The new online portal offers importers/exporters a secure, user-friendly and simplified electronic process.Facilitating applications online not only reduces processing times but caters to increased efficiency and sets service standards. Our next phase to be launched soon will ensure a single window process and platform for the department to communicate with allrecommendation agencies, share alerts and information and intelligence and contribute towards the country’s wider agenda for accelerating trade,” said Ministry of Telecommunications andDigitalnfrastructureSecretaryWasantha Deshapriya.

Phase two of the system, which is expected to be launched mid-2018 will integrate all recommendation agencies to the single window ecosystem. 

To ensure a smoother and convenient process in obtaining licenses, phase two will offer a single window concept, where applicants do not have to visit other agencies but submit and receive their permits through a ‘one stop shop’ model.

This will include integrating the Customs procedures as well.Through the debiting and amendment process, the information will then update and trigger Customs databases as well. As a result, all manual procedures will no longer be required and importers/exporters can submit all requisite information via the IECD online portal. The analytical data will further assist trade officials in decision making.

Phase two will also provide for online payments where applicants can pay the fees via credit cards, bank drafts or transfers and inform the department accordingly.