How to Import From Sri Lanka

By an eHow Contributor

Sri Lanka is the small Southeast Asian island-nation that is known for the rich export of everything from cinnamon and rubber to precious gems. Sri Lanka has been in the midst of an economic boom, and there are several business opportunities available, especially if you would like to import from Sri Lanka.

Difficulty: Moderate

1
Create a plan for why you want to import from Sri Lanka. Begin by meeting an untapped market for a product Sri Lanka can provide. Writing a business plan detailing your plans to import from Sri Lanka can help you decide if importing certain products will benefit your business.
2
Decide how you will transfer the product you plan to import from Sri Lanka. You can choose to be responsible for transferring the product on your own or hire a third party like a Sri Lankan customs broker.
3
Find the right source in Sri Lanka to provide you with the product you need. Consider cost, the quality of the product and whether the vendor has a history of successful business transactions with US businesses.
4
Determine how you will purchase the product you want to import from Sri Lanka. Arrange for a prepayment in the form of cash, a down payment arrangement or a letter of credit.
5
Consider Homeland Security issues as you import products from Sri Lanka. Check with your local customs small business program to get all the information you need about important security regulations.