Rise in non-traditional agri exports

Ag-Biz East Trade exhibition in July:

Charumini DE SILVA

Non-traditional agricultural exports have shown a significant growth with the restoration of peace.

This was mainly because one third of the land was added to economic activities of the country. This has resulted in more cultivatable lands and many new business ventures.

“However, Sri Lanka’s agricultural export industry has not developed compared to the other regional countries. Food processing industry is an attractive export market where our food exporters can contribute,” Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA) President, Rohantha de Fonseka told Daily News Business.

The first agricultural trade exhibition Ag-Biz East will be held on July 16 and 17 at the Hindu Cultural hall in Trincomalee. The event is organized by the National Agribusiness Council along with the USAID.

This trade exhibition will facilitate farmers, business and opportunities that will stimulate the region’s economy. There is a steady increase in the number entering the agricultural related business and investments.

“We need to add value to our products, which is vital for the export market. Although our farmers do not adopt the latest technology compared to countries in the region, we can still cater quality products with the technology they have,” de Fonseka said. Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) Chairman Dr Anura Ekanayake said an event like Ag-Biz East is timely to consider and get the optimum use of the land and human resources.

The event could focus on how to build more business partnerships through various enterprises related to agriculture.

“Agriculture is the key economic activity in the Eastern province. Technology plays an important role, to fast track the process. More sustainable business modules are essential to share the outcome,” he said.

The land in the Eastern province is fertile and ideal for farming. However, it has not been used to its full potential due to the conflict. Most of the farmers still follow traditional methods of cultivation and have not been exposed to new technologies.

This has resulted poor yields and low profitability in the sector.

Ag-Biz East will reawaken the region by taking latest products, technologies and trends to the farmers. A one-stop point of contact with organizations is important for the development of their activities. The linkage between buyers and farmers must be brought in a stronger manner,” Dr. Ekanayake said.