Sri Lanka opens consultation on revised food packaging and advertising rules

Sri Lanka is preparing to introduce a new set of food labelling and advertising regulations that could affect exporters of fresh produce, juices, dried fruit, frozen products, and other packaged agricultural goods supplying the market, according to the latest USDA FAS GAIN report.

Sri Lanka notified the World Trade Organization of the draft Food (Labelling and Advertising) Regulations 2026 on April 7. WTO members have until June 6, 2026 to submit comments before the proposed rules move forward.

The draft regulation would replace the current Food (Labelling and Advertising) Regulations of 2022 as well as earlier rules dating back to 2005. If approved, the new framework is expected to enter into force on July 1, 2026.

For fruit and vegetable exporters, the changes are mainly tied to packaging compliance and retail labelling requirements. Products such as packaged fresh produce, minimally processed fruit and vegetables, frozen items, juices, nuts, and dried fruit could all fall within the scope of the updated rules when sold in retail channels.

The report notes that food labels would need to include mandatory information covering areas such as product identity, ingredients, importer or manufacturer details, shelf life declarations, and storage instructions. The regulation also contains provisions linked to advertising claims and presentation of food products.

Sri Lanka said products manufactured or imported before the implementation date would continue to be allowed for sale under the previous rules.

The USDA report advises exporters and food companies supplying Sri Lanka to monitor the proposed changes closely, as labelling compliance remains an important part of customs clearance and retail market access procedures.

Read the full report here.

source: fas.usda.gov

photo: mfa.gov.lk