Foreign Investment

Leading expertise in the market

At D.L.&F. De Saram, globalisation is more than a concept – it is a driving force shaping modern commerce. Sri Lanka’s growing investment landscape, strengthened by the Economic Transformation Act (ETA), presents significant opportunities for international businesses. We are here to guide foreign investors through every step of the process, ensuring compliance with cross-border investment law and smooth facilitation.

With decades of experience serving international clients, D. L. & F. De Saram has built a reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted advisors in foreign investment. Our dedicated team specialises in navigating the country’s complex legal and regulatory framework, ensuring that every investment is structured for success.

Backed by a practical understanding of Sri Lanka’s evolving investment climate, we provide tailored solutions that address both opportunity and risk. We are proud to serve as trusted advisors to leading global businesses across Asia and beyond.

Our Expertise
Our team combines in-depth knowledge of Sri Lanka’s legal framework with practical experience in international investment. We advise clients on:

  • Foreign exchange regulations and compliance
  • Foreign ownership restrictions and structuring
  • Investment incentives in Sri Lanka and approvals
  • Investor protection and repatriation of income
  • Channelling proceeds and compliance requirements


With strong expertise in both regulatory and transactional aspects, we help international investors establish, expand, and safeguard their businesses in Sri Lanka.

Comprehensive Services for Foreign Investors
From entry to expansion, we provide end-to-end legal support tailored to the unique needs of each investor. Our services include:

  • Conducting initial due diligence on investment opportunities
  • Advising on structuring and legal compliance
  • Liaising with the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Department of Foreign Exchange
  • Negotiating with government authorities and regulators
  • Ensuring post-investment compliance for sustainable operations


Our longstanding relationships with key regulatory bodies ensure efficient communication and smoother processes for our clients.


FAQs

Foreign ownership restrictions vary by sector. Some industries are fully open, while others may have limitations or require BOI approval.

Profits and dividends can be repatriated through approved banking channels, subject to compliance with foreign exchange regulations.

Investment incentives in Sri Lanka may include limited tax concessions including enhanced capital allowances, duty exemptions, and investment allowances, often provided through the Board of Investment (BOI) for approved projects.

Not all investments require BOI approval, but BOI registration can provide additional benefits and facilitation under cross-border investment law for larger projects.

Contact Us
Looking to invest in Sri Lanka? Our foreign investment team at D.L.&F. De Saram is ready to provide clear, strategic legal guidance on FDI, foreign exchange regulations, and investment incentives in Sri Lanka.

Contact Us to discuss your investment plans.

Awards & Recognition

“White & Case has an expert asset finance team advising numerous
international clients. Its established presence in the European and North
American asset finance space is complemented by a growing strength in Asia”
Chambers Global 2021

“They know aviation finance inside and out, they’re very responsive and they
provide good client service,” – client feedback
Chambers Global 2021

Top 5 Aviation Law Firms Globally
AirFinance Journal Legal Survey 2018, 2019, 2022, 2021

Key Contacts

Managing Partner

Senior Partner

Partner

Senior Partner

Relevant Posts

The Firm provides legal counsel in all aspects of foreign and local investment on approval from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and the Board of Investment. The firm also offers legal expertise on specific incentives and exemptions granted by the BOI in relation to Taxation and Banking and businesses.

Key Contacts

Partner

Senior Partner

Relevant Posts

Consult Our Experts

Our expert team of partners and leading lawyers offer services across extensive practice areas and ensure our clients receive optimal legal advice. They have the capacity to handle everything from intricate cases to crucial disputes, providing top-tier solutions with unwavering dedication and expertise.