Classification
Product TypeRaw Material
Product FormFresh
Industry PositionPrimary Agricultural Product
Raw Material
Market
Fresh garlic in Sri Lanka is primarily a domestic-consumption condiment market with high import dependence. UN Comtrade data (via WITS) shows Sri Lanka imported about 36.95 million kg worth about USD 49.86 million in 2024 (HS 070320), with China supplying the overwhelming majority. The Department of Agriculture describes garlic cultivation as traditionally suited to high-elevation up-country wet and intermediate zones, and notes “Kappetipola selection” as a leading cultivated type. Market access and continuity of supply are strongly shaped by plant-quarantine import permit and phytosanitary documentation requirements, where document non-compliance can result in detention or rejection at entry.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer market)
Domestic RoleWidely used culinary condiment; domestic cultivation exists but imports supply most reported fresh/chilled trade volume
Market GrowthGrowing (2023–2024 trade proxy)import value increased year-on-year in latest reported UN Comtrade/WITS data
Specification
Primary VarietyKappetipola selection
Secondary Variety- Batangas White (Philippines)
- Lumbuputti (Indonesia)
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Overseas supplier packing → sea/air freight to designated Sri Lanka entry points → NPQS document check (PQ Form 01 submission) → phytosanitary inspection/sampling as required → customs clearance → importer/wholesale distribution
Freight IntensityHigh
Transport ModeSea
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighFresh garlic imports can be detained or rejected at Sri Lanka entry points if plant-quarantine documentation is incomplete/incorrect or violates permit conditions (e.g., missing critical information, forged documents, or permit-condition violations per NPQS import clearance guidance).Obtain the NPQS import permit before dispatch; run a pre-shipment document checklist ensuring original phytosanitary certificate and required enclosures match permit conditions and shipment details.
Supply Concentration MediumSri Lanka’s reported imports of fresh/chilled garlic (HS 070320) are highly concentrated in a single origin (China), creating vulnerability to origin-side disruptions or policy changes affecting availability and price.Maintain qualified alternate-origin suppliers (where NPQS permit conditions allow) and monitor import performance and clearance outcomes by origin.
Logistics MediumSea-freight volatility and port/inspection delays can increase landed cost and raise quality risks (e.g., deterioration during extended dwell time), particularly given low unit value per kg implied by UN Comtrade/WITS data.Use robust packaging and shipment planning to minimize dwell time; align arrival schedules with clearing agent readiness and NPQS documentation requirements.
FAQ
Is Sri Lanka mainly an importer or exporter of fresh garlic?Sri Lanka is mainly an importer. UN Comtrade data via WITS reports imports of about USD 49.86 million (36.95 million kg) in 2024 for HS 070320, while exports in 2024 are reported at about USD 15.46 thousand (5,454 kg).
Where does Sri Lanka source most of its fresh/chilled garlic imports from?China is the dominant source. WITS reports Sri Lanka’s 2024 HS 070320 imports at USD 49,699.24K from China out of USD 49,861.43K total.
What key documents are commonly required to clear imported fresh garlic in Sri Lanka?NPQS guidance lists key documents such as the original plant import permit, original phytosanitary certificate, certificate of origin, endorsed customs declaration, transport document (airway bill/bill of lading), invoice, packing list, and any required treatment certificate (e.g., fumigation) depending on permit conditions.