Update July 2022

Not long ago, the Sri Lanka Customs authorities made an import license mandatory for certain B2B shipments. Recently, this import license has been lifted again. This allows any importer to import goods such as food and beverages, beauty products, clothing (accessories) and footwear, electrical appliances, watches and musical instruments. An import license for these goods is no longer required from the Sri Lanka Controller General of Import and Export Control.

However, a surcharge now applies to these import shipments (in addition to import duties and other existing regulations). This surcharge is determined per product (type). The surcharge percentages can be found in this document from the Sri Lanka Customs Authorities.

 

Update May 2022

Recently, the customs authorities of Sri Lanka have made an Import License required for many types of commercial goods. As a result, Sri Lankan recipients/recipients must apply for an import permit prior to arrival, which is issued by the Controller General of Import and Export Control of Sri Lanka. The import permit must be handed over to DHL Express so that the Sri Lankan authorities can clear the goods.

The required Import License applies to: Business to Business (B2B) shipments, and Commercial goods such as food and beverages, beauty products, clothing (accessories) and footwear, electrical appliances, watches and musical instruments. The full list of products (with HS codes) can be downloaded on the website of the Sri Lankan authorities.

Exempt are: Business-to-Consumer (B2C) shipments based on customs assessment for non-commercial shipment purposes, Samples, Warranty Replacements and Document Shipments.

How to avoid delays - We advise shippers to Sri Lanka:

  • Pro-actively inform all your Sri Lankan recipients/addressees about these new regulations.
  • Please include the full address and contact details of the Sri Lankan recipient/consignee when creating the shipment.
  • Include a copy of the Import License with all other shipping documents.
  • Provide complete and accurate electronic data  in the commercial or proforma invoice, such as: goods description, specified values, country of origin, etc.

More information

You can find more details in this presentation.