Customs Waives All Duties On Foreign Aid For Flood Victims

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Customs said that all foreign aid consignments will be released duty-free, exempt from customs and other taxes.

This measure comes in response to the severe disaster situation gripping the country.

Customs confirmed that the initiative will be carried out under the approval of the Ministry of Finance, ensuring a streamlined process for humanitarian assistance.

To facilitate donations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website now provides detailed information on essential items required for relief operations.

Once cleared, these goods can be transported via air or sea routes and will be released without any tax obligations.

Importers are instructed to address consignments to:

“Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Disaster Management Centre, Vidya Mawatha, Colombo 07.”

Additionally, any items sent directly by foreign governments to Sri Lankan embassies will also qualify for duty-free clearance, Customs confirmed.

Among the priority items listed are:

Mega phones, rescue ropes, rechargeable electric lamps, life-saving tubes, safety helmets, Submersible water pumps, boat engines (over 40 HP), electric saws, generators, boots, life jackets, Portable toilets, mini excavators, and essential fertilizers such as Urea, TSP, and MOP.

Individuals or organizations seeking to import aid under this tax exemption scheme can visit the Customs website for complete guidelines and procedures.

This move is expected to significantly speed up the delivery of critical supplies to communities in need, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s commitment to swift disaster response and international cooperation.