Can I legally export heavy Sri Lankan antique wooden furniture?

Yes, you can export antique furniture made of wood from Sri Lanka, but you must get an official export licence from the Director General of Archaeology first. Anything older than 50 years is legally treated as an antique, and it falls under strict customs rules.

The government keeps a close watch on the export of cultural heritage goods to avoid the loss of historically significant pieces. If you buy larger colonial-era furniture or traditional Sri Lankan sets, the dealer should give a certificate of authenticity and help with the long paperwork needed for international shipping, because the process is not quick. If you try to ship an antique without this clearance, then Sri Lankan Customs will seize the item at the port.