Sri Lanka's Consumer Affairs Authority has reminded businesses that they must maintain proper invoices and documentation proving the source of all goods in their possession, a requirement that has been in effect since April 2022.

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has issued a reminder that traders operating in Sri Lanka are legally obligated to retain documentation verifying where goods originate, a regulation that has been active since April 27, 2022, under Order No. 83. The requirement applies broadly across the supply chain, including manufacturers, warehouse operators, suppliers, distributors and retailers.

According to the CAA, invoices must include critical details such as the supplier's name and address, purchase date, price paid, product type and quantity, and batch numbers where relevant. The Authority emphasises that this documentation is essential for establishing legitimate supply chains, particularly for imported goods where traceability becomes more complex.

During inspections and market raids, CAA officials verify compliance with these documentation standards. Traders unable to produce proper invoices face significant legal consequences, including the seizure of goods and court proceedings. The CAA stated that enforcement measures are designed to protect businesses operating transparently while preventing undocumented merchandise from entering formal market channels.

The Authority has indicated that the enforcement of these record-keeping requirements serves a dual purpose: legitimising businesses that maintain proper documentation while disrupting informal supply chains that lack proper traceability.