Sri Lanka opens downtown duty-free shopping as CDFG enters Port City market

The store follows new Sri Lanka customs duty-free rules.

China Duty Free Group (CDFG) has expanded its operations in Sri Lanka with the launch of CDF Duty Free Sri Lanka at Port City Colombo, introducing a downtown duty-free shopping model aimed at both local residents and international travelers.

The store operates under new Sri Lanka Customs regulations that support downtown duty-free shopping.

Eligible Sri Lankan citizens and residents can shop within four days of returning from overseas, whilst departing passengers with valid boarding passes can purchase goods before travel and collect them at airport counters. Diplomats are also eligible under existing rules.

CDF Duty Free Sri Lanka offers a range of international products including beauty and fragrances, liquor, confectionery, electronics, fashion, watches, and luxury accessories.

The store also promotes competitive pricing, brand promotions, and premium customer service.

Proposed regulatory changes could further expand access, including duty-free eligibility after every overseas trip and allowing two visits within the four-day post-arrival period.

The company said the downtown store is designed to function as both a retail and experience space, offering product tastings and customer engagement activities.

CDFG said its entry into Sri Lanka reflects confidence in the country’s tourism recovery and the growth of its retail sector, and it plans to continue working with regulators and stakeholders to expand its presence in the regional duty-free market.

“The scale of our group operations enables us to offer highly competitive pricing, exclusive duty-free products, and fashion and luxury brands not currently available in Sri Lanka—or even within the subcontinent,” said Dimantha Kinigama, general manager of CDF Sri Lanka.