Market
Raisins (dried grapes) in Sri Lanka are an import-dependent processed-fruit product used for household consumption and as an ingredient in bakery and confectionery. UN Comtrade data (via WITS) shows Sri Lanka imported about USD 3.776 million (2,735 tonnes) of HS 080620 in 2024, with India as the dominant supplier. Market access hinges on Ministry of Health packaged-food labeling rules effective 1 Jan 2024 and on Customs and plant-quarantine documentation/inspection.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer and food manufacturing ingredient market)
Domestic RoleImported dried-fruit ingredient for retail and food manufacturing use
Market GrowthGrowing (2023–2024 trade value comparison)Import trade value increased from 2023 to 2024 in UN Comtrade/WITS HS 080620 data
SeasonalityNon-seasonal availability driven by imports; raisins are shelf-stable but sensitive to humidity during storage.
Risks
Labeling Compliance HighNon-compliance with Sri Lanka’s Food (Labeling and Advertising) Regulations (2022), effective January 1, 2024 for packaged foods, can lead to detention, relabeling requirements, or refusal of clearance for imported packaged raisins.Pre-clear label artwork against the 2022 labeling rules: ensure the common name is in bold in English/Sinhala/Tamil, include country of origin and importer name/address, and if imported in bulk and repacked, label manufacture and repacking dates as required.
Plant Quarantine Documentation MediumAs a plant product, raisins may be routed through NPQS plant quarantine controls; missing or inconsistent permits/certificates or document errors can trigger detention and may result in re-export or destruction depending on quarantine findings and permit conditions.Confirm NPQS permit requirements before shipment; ensure original documents (import permit where required, phytosanitary certificate where required, certificate of origin, invoice/packing list, transport documents) match the consignment and any additional declarations required by permit conditions.
Food Safety Contaminants MediumDried fruit is susceptible to quality and safety issues (mold/infestation risk, residue non-compliance, and sulfite/allergen declaration issues for sulfured raisins), which can lead to border action and reputational harm.Require supplier COA and accredited lab testing aligned to buyer/importer requirements; implement moisture/infestation control in storage; ensure sulfite presence is correctly declared on labels where applicable.
Logistics and Cost MediumOcean freight and currency volatility can materially affect landed cost for imported raisins, creating price volatility and margin pressure for importers and downstream users.Diversify origins and shipment timing; use inventory buffering for peak demand periods; consider FX risk management and contracted freight where feasible.
Standards- HACCP
- ISO 22000
- BRCGS Food Safety
FAQ
Is Sri Lanka a net importer of raisins (dried grapes)?Yes. UN Comtrade data (via WITS) shows Sri Lanka imported about USD 3.776 million and 2,735,010 kg of dried grapes (HS 080620) in 2024, indicating an import-dependent market for raisins.
What is the biggest regulatory compliance risk for importing packaged raisins into Sri Lanka?Labeling compliance. Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health Food (Labeling and Advertising) Regulations (2022) took effect on January 1, 2024 for packaged foods, requiring specific labeling elements (including trilingual common names and importer/country-of-origin details). Non-compliance can lead to detention or relabeling requirements.
What plant-quarantine documents may be needed for raisins entering Sri Lanka?For plant products subject to plant quarantine controls, NPQS guidance references document checks that can include an NPQS import permit and an original phytosanitary certificate (as applicable), alongside standard trade documents such as certificate of origin, invoice, packing list, and transport documents.