The Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka is continuing its journey toward digital transformation with the launch of a new online system aimed at improving the process of removing samples from businesses operating within export zones. This initiative, which has officially rolled out at the Biyagama Export Processing Zone (EPZ), represents a collaborative effort between the BOI, the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), and the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA). It marks a significant step toward modernizing administrative processes for businesses in the export sector.
Streamlining the Sample Removal Process
The new digital portal is designed to make the process of removing samples from zone enterprises more efficient and transparent. By moving this critical task online, the BOI aims to reduce delays, minimize paperwork, and help businesses stick to their production and export schedules more effectively. For companies that manufacture goods for export, this change is a welcome development, simplifying a previously time-consuming process.
During the official launch ceremony, the BOI highlighted the importance of digitizing administrative procedures, particularly for businesses focused on export production. The move is part of a broader effort by the BOI to upgrade its services and align with global best practices, ensuring Sri Lanka remains competitive in the international market.
Improving Efficiency and Transparency
The introduction of this online platform is expected to enhance operational efficiency not only in Biyagama but also across other export zones in Sri Lanka. The BOI is planning to expand this system to other zones in the future, which will help reduce operating bottlenecks for businesses nationwide. This shift toward digital solutions is in line with the BOI’s long-term strategy of creating a more business-friendly environment, which is essential for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and boosting the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s export industry.
By leveraging digital technology, the BOI is setting new standards for public service delivery. The organization’s goal is to create a more transparent and accountable administrative framework that supports businesses in their operations and makes Sri Lanka a more attractive destination for global investors.
How the New Online System Works
The new system allows businesses to manage the entire sample removal process online, replacing what used to be a manual, paper-heavy task. Here’s how the process works:
- Submitting a Request: Companies can submit their requests for sample removal via the new digital portal. In the request, they must specify the samples they want to remove and provide a reason for the removal, such as for testing, quality assurance, or exhibition purposes.
- BOI Officer Review: Once a request is submitted, a designated BOI officer reviews the information provided. If all the required information is complete and meets the necessary criteria, the request is approved. If additional information or clarification is needed, the officer will mark the request as “queried,” and the company will be notified to provide further details.
- Approval and Documentation: Upon approval, the system generates a digital approval document. Businesses can download and print this document, which serves as the official authorization for sample removal.
- Sample Collection: When the company arrives at the Biyagama EPZ to collect their samples, they must present the printed approval document. This ensures that only approved samples are released, maintaining regulatory compliance and security at the zone.
Supporting the Export Sector
The apparel industry, one of Sri Lanka’s most significant export sectors, stands to benefit greatly from this new system. By eliminating unnecessary delays in the sample approval process, businesses can focus on meeting their production and export timelines without worrying about administrative bottlenecks. The introduction of this online system also aligns with global standards for business operations, making Sri Lanka’s export processing zones more attractive to international companies.
The BOI’s initiative is not just about streamlining processes—it is also about ensuring that Sri Lanka remains a top destination for global investors. By providing faster and more efficient services to businesses, the BOI hopes to enhance Sri Lanka’s reputation as a competitive, business-friendly country that is open for trade and investment.
A Key Step in BOI’s Digital Transformation Journey
The launch of this online system is part of a broader push by the BOI to modernize its services and drive digital transformation across Sri Lanka’s business sector. The BOI has recognized that digital solutions are essential to improving operational efficiency, reducing bureaucracy, and fostering a more transparent and accountable administrative structure.
This new program is consistent with the BOI’s strategic goal of creating an environment where businesses can thrive. By digitizing critical processes like sample removal, the BOI is laying the groundwork for further technological advancements that will benefit businesses in all sectors.
Expanding the Program to Other Zones
While the online system is currently available only at the Biyagama EPZ, the BOI plans to expand this technology to other export processing zones in Sri Lanka. This expansion will reduce operating bottlenecks across the country, making it easier for businesses to operate smoothly and efficiently.
The BOI’s ultimate aim is to create a seamless experience for businesses, where administrative procedures are quick, transparent, and easy to navigate. By reducing the burden of paperwork and minimizing delays, the BOI hopes to boost the productivity of Sri Lanka’s export sector, allowing businesses to focus on what matters most: growing their operations and contributing to the country’s economic development.
Conclusion
The BOI’s launch of the online system for sample removal at the Biyagama EPZ is a major step forward in Sri Lanka’s digital transformation. This new platform not only streamlines the process for businesses but also enhances transparency and accountability in public service delivery. As the BOI continues to roll out digital solutions across the country’s export processing zones, Sri Lanka is well-positioned to attract more foreign investment and strengthen its export sector.
By adopting these digital innovations, the BOI is ensuring that Sri Lanka remains a competitive and attractive destination for global businesses. The new online system is just the beginning of a broader effort to modernize the country’s business environment, making it easier for companies to operate and contribute to Sri Lanka’s economic growth.
