October 16, Colombo (LNW): The Board of Investment (BOI) has introduced an online portal to enhance the sample clearance procedure for zone-based companies, in collaboration with the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) and Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA).
The system has officially been implemented in the Biyagama Export Processing Zone (EPZ), with the goal of increasing efficiency and transparency for businesses operating within the zone.
During the launch event, the focus was on the importance of digitizing administrative processes to facilitate smoother operations for companies, especially those involved in export manufacturing.
The BOI aims to reduce delays, minimize paperwork, and help businesses adhere to production and export schedules by moving this crucial licensing process online.
This online system is a part of the BOI’s broader initiative to upgrade its services and drive the digital transformation of Sri Lanka’s business landscape. The platform promises to enhance operational efficiency while contributing to a more transparent and accountable administrative framework.
Plans to expand this technology to other export processing zones are underway, potentially easing operational bottlenecks and providing a more streamlined experience for businesses across the nation.
This initiative aligns with the BOI’s strategic goal of creating a business-friendly environment to attract increased foreign direct investment and boost Sri Lanka’s export sector competitiveness.
Through digital innovations, the BOI aims to set new benchmarks for public service delivery, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s position as a premier destination for global investors and exporters.
The new system enables companies to fully manage the sample removal process online, transforming what was once a manual and time-intensive procedure. Businesses can now submit requests through the portal, specifying the samples they wish to remove and the purpose, such as testing, exhibitions, or quality assurance.
Each request is reviewed by a designated BOI officer. If the information meets all requirements, the request is approved. In cases where further details are needed, the request is marked as “queried,” prompting the company to provide additional data. Once approved, a digital approval document is generated, which companies can download and use as authorization to remove samples from the zone.
To finalize the sample removal, companies must present the written approval at the Biyagama Export Processing Zone gate, ensuring that only authorized samples are released in compliance with regulations and security measures.
