Sri Lanka Strengthens Quality Controls on Imported Goods

On May 17, 2024, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilization and National Policies of Sri Lanka introduced the Standardization and Quality Control Regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No.1 of 1969, aiming to enhance quality control and standardization of imported goods, including cosmetics. Comprising 13 Articles and 2 Schedules, this new regulation primarily outlines the applicable standards in Sri Lanka for imported goods and the requirements for supporting documents demonstrating adherence to these standards. It replaces the previous Imports and Exports Control (Standardization and Quality Control) Regulations 2017 released on March 29, 2018, and its subsequent amendments.

Key updates of the new regulation include:

1. Expanded Coverage for Imported Commodities

The regulation newly introduces Schedule I (B), which includes over 30 categories of imported goods, among which 14 pertain to the cosmetic sector. Moreover, the new regulation includes subtle adjustments to the H.S. codes and product descriptions referenced in the two schedules.

Notably, the implementation of the new regulations will be phased in. Starting from May 17, 2024, it applies to the importation of the goods specified in Schedule I (A), and from November 15, 2024, goods listed in Schedule I (B) must comply with the regulations.

2. Refinement of the Mandatory Conformity to Sri Lankan Standards

Importers must ensure that all goods specified in Schedules I (A) and I (B) of the new regulations conform to the corresponding "Sri Lankan Standards" before importation. This conformity can be verified by presenting an acceptable Product Conformity Certificate or by submitting samples to the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) for testing.

Acceptable product conformity certifications include those issued by:

• Independent accredited laboratories in the exporting country,

• The National Standards Body or Competent Standard Authority of the exporting country,

• Certificates/permits issued for the "SLS Mark" or any other "Product Certificate Mark" by the National Standards Body of any country with compatible standards.

3. Refinement of the Requirements for Clearance and Release of Goods

Sri Lanka Customs will not release goods specified in Schedules I (A) and I (B) until receiving approval from the SLSI for clearance of such goods, except in cases where a bank guarantee is provided, and the goods bear required mark per the "Sri Lanka Standards". If imported goods are found not to conform to the required standards, they must be re-exported to the country of origin within 90 days, with all associated costs borne by the importer.