[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date] [Director General of Archaeology] [Department of Archaeology] [Address] [City, State, Zip Code] Dear [Director General's Name], Subject: Proposal for Tax-Free Import of Ceylon Antiquities The Sri Lanka Numismatic Socoety is a concerned advocate for the preservation of Sri Lanka's rich Numismatic heritage, I am writing to propose a significant policy change regarding the taxation of Ceylon Antiquities imported into Sri Lanka. As you are well aware, Sri Lanka boasts a wealth of antiquities that hold immense historical, cultural, Numismatic and archaeological significance. These artifacts are not only invaluable in preserving our national heritage but also serve as crucial educational tools and tourist attractions, contributing to the socio-economic development of our country. Currently, antiquities older than 100 years cannot be legally taken out of Sri Lanka, a commendable measure implemented to safeguard our national treasures. However, I believe there is an opportunity to further enhance the protection and promotion of these artifacts by revising the taxation policy on Ceylon Antiquities brought back to our country from abroad like from foreign auctions. It has come to my attention that individuals who acquire Ceylon Antiquities at foreign auctions and subsequently mail them to Sri Lanka are subjected to nearly 40% customs duty and tax upon importation. This taxation significantly discourages the repatriation of these invaluable artifacts and impedes efforts to reunite them with their rightful place within our cultural landscape. Therefore, I propose that the Ministry of Finance consider exempting Ceylon Antiquities from customs duty and tax when they are brought back to Sri Lanka. By implementing a tax-free policy for these artifacts, we can incentivize individuals, collectors, and institutions abroad to return Ceylon Antiquities to their country of origin, thereby enriching our national collections and preserving our cultural heritage for future generations. Moreover, facilitating the tax-free import of Ceylon Antiquities aligns with our government's commitment to promoting cultural heritage and tourism, fostering international goodwill, and enhancing scholarly research and educational opportunities. I respectfully request your support in championing this proposal and advocating for its consideration by the Ministry of Finance. Your expertise and influence in the field of archaeology are invaluable assets in advancing initiatives that protect and promote Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss this proposal further and collaborate on efforts to safeguard and celebrate the rich legacy of our nation's antiquities. Yours sincerely, [Your Name]