‘Cinnamon growth trend to continue’

The cinnamon growth trend looks set to continue in future driven by the realization of the dual value in cinnamon - in that, it is not only a spice but also has become a weight loss aid. This shows the increasing touch-points of pure Ceylon cinnamon as a brand. Strong private-public partnerships and development of scientific research and development will boost the cinnamon industry further, says Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen.

The Minister was speaking at the launch of the pure Ceylon cinnamon brand event.

“The government also clearly understands the emerging supply side and skill availability needs in the cinnamon industry and believes that strengthening of the cinnamon supply chains by encouraging more youth to enter the industry can help in sustaining the industry’s growth, while also giving a viable solution for unemployment,” Minister Bathiudeen said.

“I propose to encourage more youth to enter the industry by generating fresh interest among them and I believe this will greatly help solve one key supply side issue in the long-run. We also need to create awareness of the rewarding employment opportunities now open to them in the cinnamon sector so that cinnamon becomes a key solution for unemployment in the country. At the same time, we should take steps to well prepare the new entrants to the industry by providing practical training arrangements at institutional and informal levels so that they can readily contribute from day one,” Minister Bathiudeen said.

Speaking on the strong contribution of cinnamon export earnings in 2011 first half’s export revenues, he said, “cinnamon is the most important and valuable spice produced in Sri Lanka.

Thanking the stakeholders and also pledging his fullest support, Minister Bathiudeen stressed: “I thank all the public and private stakeholders of the industry for the continuous dedication they have shown to sustain it to this date. I also wish to thank the EDB Chairman for taking the leadership for this nationally important task. I will assure you the fullest support from me and my Ministry to promote pure Ceylon cinnamon and other spices and allied products exports from Sri Lanka thereby permanently positioning Sri Lanka in the world marketplace of high quality spices.”