ID&T - specialists in importing from and exporting to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka import/export help and advice

Sri Lanka's business profile

Population 21.33 million (2009). Labour force of 8.11 million.

Main export commodities: Textiles, Apparel, Tea, Spices, Diamonds, Rubies, Emeralds, Coconut products, Rubber manufactures and Fish. Approximately 12% of exports go to the United Kingdom.

Main import commodities: Textile Fabric, Mineral products, Petroleum, Foodstuff, Machinery, Transportation Equipment.

Economy: The GDP of Sri Lanka continues to grow on average by 5% per year. English is the language used by the Sri Lankan Government and is widely spoken throughout the country.

There are many business opportunities in Sri Lanka. There are very strong ties with United Kingdom. The economy of Sri Lanka continues to grow.

Main port: Colombo.

Main airport: Colombo There are many government bodies that will help to trade with Sri Lanka.

• UK Trade & Investment
• H.M. Revenue & Customs
• Business Link
• Department for Business Innovation & Skills

If you are exporting we suggest that you sell on an FOB (Free on Board) basis also if importing buy on a FOB basis. On export this helps turn around funds quicker as your responsibility ends once cargo is loaded onto ship or aeroplane, you have completed your contract and you are not responsible for any delays.

On imports buying FOB is again the preferred term of shipment. In this way you have control on your shipping costs fully as these will be agreed in the UK with a UK company. You also have control over the lead time of your goods. Cargo will arrive when you want it to arrive and not just when it suits your supplier to send out. You have authorise payment through your bank one cargo is despatched to ensure that you have required paperwork to receive, custom clear and take delivery of cargo.