The Government Information Center

Ministry of Finance
Sri Lanka Customs Department

Exportation of Gemstones

Gem stones purchased in Sri Lanka can be exported either by Air freight or hand carried by the owner.


Export of Gem Stones by Air Cargo/EMS/FEDEX

Gem stones are submitted to the National Gem and Jewelry Authority (NGJA) with normal Customs Declaration (CUSDEC). NGJA Valuer and Customs Gem Appraiser examine the Gem Stones and allow the sealed shipment to be transferred to the Air Cargo terminal by a bonded carrier. The shipments can also be sent through by Express mail service (EMS) or FEDEX courier service.

Hand carrying Gem Stones by departing passenger (Normal Procedure)

Gem stones needed to be hand carried are submitted to the NGJA. Afterthe examination, the sealed Gem parcels are transferred to the Duty officer (No 1 Officer) at the departure terminal of the Airport. Passenger can collect the gem parcel from the duty officer, after obtaining the Boarding Pass, by submitting the receipt he received at the NGJA and hand carry the Gems with him.

Hand carrying Gem Stones by departing passenger (Expedite Procedure)

The passenger who urgently need to hand carry cut and polish Gem Stones FOB valued US$ 200,000/ or more may opt to obtain the US$ 1500/- service fee voucher at the NGJA and proceed to the Airport directly with the Gems and invoice copies in triplicates. The passenger produces the Gems, invoices and the voucher to the Duty officer, customs at the departure terminal. The officer makes necessary endorsement in the documents and releases a copy of invoice with the shipment.