Export-Import (Exim) Manager
Ideal for those who want to be part of Sri Lanka's international trade machine — connecting local businesses to global markets.”
About This Role
Oversees the international shipment of goods, ensuring compliance with global trade regulations and customs laws.
A Day in the Life
Manage import and export transactions for Sri Lankan businesses, handling documentation, customs procedures, Letters of Credit (LCs), and regulatory compliance with Sri Lanka Customs and the Department of Commerce.
- Prepare and review export/import documentation (Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin)
- Process Letters of Credit (LC) — issuance, negotiation, and discounting
- Coordinate with Sri Lanka Customs for import clearance and duty computation
- Apply for export incentives and concessions from BOI/EDB
- Manage relationships with freight forwarders and shipping lines
- Monitor foreign exchange inflows/outflows and CBSL export proceeds requirements
- Ensure compliance with import control regulations and import cess exemptions
Work Environment
Corporate trade finance department or freight forwarder. Involves port visits and customs office interactions. Deadline-driven during shipment windows. Multi-stakeholder coordination (banks, customs, shipping, buyers/sellers).
Typical hours: 45h/week · WLB score 3/10 · OCCASIONAL overtime
Deadline-driven around shipment dates and LC expiry. Port visits sometimes required outside hours. Generally balanced outside these peaks.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
Soft Skills
Tools & Software
Salary in Sri Lanka (LKR / month)
Typical progression: 4yr to mid · 8yr to senior
Global Salary (USD / year)
Top Markets
Market Outlook
STABLE
Essential role for SL's export-dependent economy (apparel, tea, gems). Port of Colombo expansion maintaining demand. Every import/export company needs Exim expertise.
Hiring: MEDIUM
STABLE
Global trade finance professionals needed at major banks (HSBC, Standard Chartered) and multinational trading companies. Growing complexity with sanctions and trade compliance.
Entry Requirements
Sri Lanka
Preferred
Global
Preferred
Helpful Certifications
Entrepreneurship & Freelancing
Freelance earnings: $300–$1000/mo (USD)
Platforms (SL)
Business Ideas
- Freight forwarding and customs clearing agency
- Trade documentation outsourcing for SMEs
- Export consultancy for new exporters
- BOI incentive optimization service
Side Income Ideas
Thriving freight forwarding sector in SL. Colombo Port handling growing volumes creates opportunities.
Risks & Challenges
AI Replacement Risk
MEDIUM
MID TERM
Burnout Risk
LOW
Job Security (SL)
HIGH
ASYCUDA automation handling more customs declarations automatically. LC processing increasingly digitized (digital trade finance). However, complex multi-country trade still requires expert judgment.
Burnout Causes
Physical Health Risks
Mental Health Risks
How to Mitigate
- Obtain CDCS qualification for LC expertise
- Build ASYCUDA proficiency
- Develop CBSL export proceeds compliance knowledge
Is This Career For You?
Business or commerce students interested in international trade and logistics rather than pure finance or accounting.
Personality Types
Core Motivations
What You'll Love
- Connects SL to global trade
- Expertise valued by exporters and importers alike
- Cross-cultural and international exposure
What's Challenging
- Complex regulatory environment
- Port delays outside control
- Documentation errors have financial consequences