Smoking And The Law

Sri Lanka law on Smoking – Importation of cigarettes

The importation of cigarettes duty-free is not permitted as per the Sri Lanka law on Smoking.

It is prohibited to manufacture or import tobacco products including e-cigarettes containing tobacco, and cigarettes that are flavoured, coloured, or sweetened.

Tourists can bring their own one vape device for their personal use and a small quantity of tobacco powder if they use a pipe.

Selling tobacco by tourists is prohibited. One needs to have a tobacco licence to do so. There have been cases where tourists bring vapes and loose tobacco powders and cigarettes and tobacco-related products to sell which is illegal.

Where to buy cigarettes and cigars in Sri Lanka?

Cigarettes can be bought locally in Sri Lanka in supermarkets such as Arpico, Keels, Softlogic GLOMARK, and in local grocery shops and bars and pubs. Brands available are Dunhill, Benson & Hedges, John Player Gold Leaf, Bristol and Captain.

Some supermarkets (and hotels) sell imported cigars and locally made cigars are also available.

Smoking is prohibited in public places.

However, smoking is allowed in some enclosed spaces (like bars and casinos). If in doubt, ask before lighting up.

Rolling tobacco and rolling papers are only available in specialist shops in tourist towns like Colombo, Galle and Arugam Bay.

Marijuana

Marijuana and other drugs are illegal and there is a campaign to stamp out their sale and use. If you are desperate, you might score in popular beach areas and seedier city bars. However, we do not recommend this.

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importation of cigarettes, tobacco and cigars in Sri Lanka

Last Modified: April 25, 2024