Buyer Guides
Step-by-step guides for sourcing from Sri Lanka — from finding and vetting suppliers through to shipping and quality management.
How to Source from Sri Lanka — Step by Step
Identify Your Product & Category
Use the Lanka Export Guide product directory to find your product category and relevant buyer guide. Check which Sri Lankan products match your specifications — HS code, certifications, MOQ, and lead time requirements.
Define Your Requirements
Document your product specification: quality grade, certifications required (FDA, CE, GOTS, Organic, etc.), volume, packaging format, labelling requirements, and delivery terms (FOB/CIF/DDP). Clarity at this stage saves time and misunderstandings.
Find & Shortlist Suppliers
Use Lanka Export Guide's inquiry system, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) for apparel, or trade shows (Apparel Expo, CICTEX) to build a shortlist of qualified exporters. Verify certifications independently.
Request Samples & Conduct Vetting
Request product samples (paid or FOC depending on category) and evaluate against your specification. For larger orders (apparel, industrial), conduct factory audits — either directly or via a third-party audit firm (Bureau Veritas, SGS, QIMA).
Negotiate Terms & Place Trial Order
Negotiate on price (FOB Colombo is standard), MOQ, lead time, and payment terms. Place a trial order at the agreed MOQ before committing to large volumes. Establish a clear purchase order with all specifications documented.
Pre-Shipment Inspection & Quality Check
Conduct a pre-shipment inspection (PSI) via third party (SGS, Intertek, QIMA) or in-person QC visit. Check AQL sampling, packaging, labelling, and shipping marks before goods are loaded. Approve the final inspection report before payment release.
Arrange Shipping & Customs Clearance
Work with a freight forwarder experienced in Sri Lanka routes. Key documents: Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin (EUR.1 for GSP+), Certificate of Analysis (food/industrial), and any market-specific certificates (phytosanitary, FDA release).
Build the Relationship for Long-Term Supply
Sri Lanka's best suppliers have decade-long relationships with global brands. Invest in the relationship — share sales feedback, provide style development input, pay on time, and communicate challenges early. Long-term partnerships unlock priority capacity, better pricing, and development support.
Product-Specific Buyer Guides
Ceylon Tea Buyer Guide
Grades, origins, auction process, certifications, top markets, FAQ.
Apparel & Lingerie Guide
Factory vetting, compliance, MOQs, lead times, brand partnerships.
Rubber Gloves Guide
FDA/CE requirements, product types, certifications, AQL standards.
Virgin Coconut Oil Guide
VCO vs RBD, organic grades, certifications, food and cosmetics.
Ceylon Cinnamon Guide
GI protection, grades, Ceylon vs Cassia, EU regulations.
Gems & Sapphires Guide
NGJA regulation, buying process, certification, trade shows.