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Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024, Reports Ministry
Sri Lanka Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024

Sri Lanka Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024

Sri Lanka’s agricultural exports have soared in early 2024, outpacing the previous two years. B.L.A.J. Dharmakeerthi, Secretary of Agriculture, credits this to measures addressing the 2023 export decline. This growth occurred despite recent challenging weather conditions.

Key commodities show significant export increases. Tea exports jumped from USD 407.6 million to USD 450.5 million between April 2023 and 2024. Coconut exports rose from USD 212 million to USD 263 million in the same period.

Rubber exports also grew, reaching USD 335 million by April 2024, up from USD 299 million. This surge stems from better crop yields, increased global demand, and advanced farming technologies.

Government support for the rural economy and agricultural production policies have boosted this positive trend. The growth in exports is set to improve Sri Lanka’s trade surplus and economic recovery.

Rising demand for Sri Lankan goods positions the country to strengthen its global trading presence. This opportunity could further enhance Sri Lanka’s role in international commodities markets.

Decisive Actions Fuel Agricultural Export Growth

Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector has shown impressive growth despite recent climate challenges. The government’s proactive measures in 2023 have driven this success. Secretary Dharmakeerthi highlighted the sector’s achievements at a recent press briefing.

Strategic agricultural policies have been key to driving sector growth. These include subsidized fertilizer supply and support for tea cultivation projects. These initiatives have ensured essential inputs and provided financial support to farmers.

Overcoming Challenges and Adverse Weather Conditions

Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector has shown remarkable adaptability despite adverse weather. The government’s timely interventions have helped mitigate these challenges. Subsidies for fertilizers and support for replanting efforts have been crucial.

Proactive Measures Implemented in 2023 Lead to Substantial Growth

The government’s 2023 measures have set a strong foundation for 2024 growth. A special program ensuring adequate fertilizer supply has been implemented. Ongoing support for tea replanting and new cultivation projects continues.

Tea exports to Iran alone reached USD 250.9 million for fuel debt. Coconut exports increased from USD 212 million to USD 263 million, a 24% rise. Rubber exports grew from USD 299 million to USD 335 million by April 2024.

Cinnamon and pepper exports also showed positive trends. These results reflect the sector’s overall growth. They also demonstrate the effectiveness of the government’s supportive policies.

Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024, Reports Ministry

Sri Lanka’s agricultural exports have soared in the first half of 2024. Favorable commodity prices and increased production volumes have boosted the country’s export performance. The global economic recovery and growing international demand have driven this surge.

Tea Exports Rise from USD 407.6 Million to USD 450.5 Million

Tea exports jumped from USD 407.6 million to USD 450.5 million between April 2023 and 2024. High-quality Ceylon tea is in increasing demand worldwide. Sri Lanka is also expanding its presence in new markets.

Coconut Exports Climb from USD 212 Million to USD 263 Million

Sri Lanka’s coconut exports showed remarkable resilience despite weather challenges in 2023. Coconut-related exports rose from USD 212 million to USD 263 million. This represents a 24% increase in earnings compared to the previous year.

Rubber Exports Increase from USD 299 Million to USD 335 Million

Rubber exports in Sri Lanka grew from USD 299 million to USD 335 million. New planting and replanting projects have expanded rubber cultivation. The government has provided substantial financial support for these initiatives.

Cinnamon and Pepper Exports Show Robust Growth

Cinnamon and pepper exports have also experienced strong growth. Global demand for these spices has increased. Sri Lanka’s reputation for high-quality varieties has contributed to this growth.

Sri Lanka's Shift to Organic Farming Leads to Significant Crop Declines
Sri Lanka’s Shift to Organic Farming Drops Crop Yields

Sri Lanka’s Shift to Organic Farming Drops Crop Yields

Sri Lanka’s sudden switch to organic farming in 2021 caused major drops in crop yields. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s election promise led to a ban on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This forced 2 million farmers to adopt organic methods, resulting in a 20% fall in rice production.

The ban also hit tea crops hard, Sri Lanka’s main export. Within six months, domestic rice prices jumped by 50%. The country had to import $450 million worth of rice to make up for lost production.

The fertilizer ban’s impact was severe. Tea production losses alone cost the economy $425 million. This further strained Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange reserves and worsened the country’s economic crisis.

The government tried to help farmers with $200 million in direct compensation. They also gave $149 million in price subsidies to rice farmers. But these efforts weren’t enough to offset the negative effects of the sudden change.

The organic farming shift contributed to rising inflation and currency depreciation. It also increased poverty in the country. Critics say the government didn’t include agricultural experts in planning the change.

There was no gradual transition plan, which made things harder for farmers. The new policy not only hurt crop production but also threatened food security for Sri Lanka’s people.

Sri Lanka’s Abrupt Transition to Organic Farming

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s government banned synthetic fertilizer and pesticide imports in April 2021. This move was part of his organic agriculture pledge from the 2019 election campaign. The decision aimed to save foreign exchange and promote organic farming in Sri Lanka.

The policy was implemented without input from leading agricultural experts. Instead, it relied on representatives from the small organic sector and alternative agriculture advocates. This exclusion of agronomists led to widespread criticism of agricultural policy mismanagement.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Election Promise

During his 2019 campaign, President Rajapaksa promised a 10-year transition to organic farming. This pledge received mixed reactions. Sri Lanka had long relied on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for crop yields.

Nationwide Ban on Synthetic Fertilizers and Pesticides

The government suddenly banned synthetic fertilizer and pesticide imports in April 2021. This abrupt change left farmers struggling to adapt to organic methods. It led to significant drops in crop yields and food shortages.

The decision to cut fertilizer subsidies made the situation worse for farmers. They faced many challenges during this rapid transition to organic farming.

Exclusion of Agricultural Experts in Policy Implementation

The government’s approach to implementing the organic farming policy faced heavy criticism. Leading agricultural experts and agronomists were left out of the decision-making process. Instead, the policy relied on input from the small organic sector and alternative agriculture advocates.

Many of these supporters were linked to the Viyathmaga civil society movement. This group had backed President Rajapaksa’s election campaign.

Economic and Agricultural Consequences

Sri Lanka’s sudden shift to organic farming caused major drops in crop yields. Rice production fell by 20% within six months of banning synthetic fertilizers. This forced the country to import $450 million worth of rice.

Domestic rice prices jumped by 50%. Food inflation hit 94% in August. As a result, 28% of the population faced food insecurity.

The tea industry, crucial for exports, also took a hit. Tea output decreased by 18% after the ban. This led to lower export earnings.

Other export crops like rubber, coconut, and spices suffered too. This affected household incomes and export revenues.

Farmers struggled due to insufficient organic fertilizer production. The government couldn’t produce enough to replace imported fertilizers. This made it hard for farmers to maintain crop yields.

Protests and economic instability forced the government to partially reverse the policy. They did this for key export crops by November 2021.

The failed policy led to reduced crop yields and tea export losses. It also increased food insecurity in Sri Lanka. The government had to compensate farmers and reverse the fertilizer policy.

Experts suggest a gradual shift to organic farming. This approach should include proper support and training for farmers. It would help minimize impacts on crop yields and food security.

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Resilience in Fisheries Sector
FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience

The FAO and Norad are teaming up to strengthen Sri Lanka’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. This international cooperation aims to boost sustainable fishing and support the country’s blue economy. The goal is to ensure food security and promote responsible practices.

Fish is crucial for Sri Lanka’s protein needs. Over half of the nation’s animal protein comes from fish consumption. However, the industry faces many challenges.

Rising fuel prices and production costs are major issues. Fish loss along the value chain also impacts product affordability. These problems particularly affect low-income groups.

The FAO-Norway project will target three main areas. First, they’ll work to stop illegal and unreported fishing. Second, they’ll increase climate change resilience. Third, they’ll reduce food waste in the fisheries chain.

The project will provide technical support to various groups. These include policymakers, management experts, and industry professionals. Fishers, fish farmers, and fish workers will also receive help.

The aim is to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector through responsible resource use. Marine conservation will play a key role in this effort. This will contribute to the country’s overall socio-economic growth.

Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Sector Faces Challenges

Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry supports 2.5 million coastal residents. It’s struggling amid the country’s economic crisis. The sector provides half of Sri Lankans’ animal protein but faces rising fuel prices and costs.

Economic Crisis Impacts Fisheries Industry

Fuel price hikes have hit the fisheries sector hard. Higher costs make it tough for fishers to earn a living. As a result, fish prices have increased, affecting low-income groups.

Rising Fuel Prices and Production Costs Affect Affordability

Fish is a key protein source for Sri Lankans. But soaring costs have made it less affordable for many households. This raises concerns about people’s nutrition, especially in lower-income groups.

Fish Loss and Waste Along the Value Chain

Sri Lanka’s fisheries face fish loss and waste issues. Poor cold storage and transport lead to post-harvest losses. This reduces fish supply in the market.

Addressing these problems is vital for food security. It’s also crucial for maintaining the sector’s long-term sustainability.

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Resilience in Fisheries Sector

FAO and Norway are teaming up to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector. They’re focusing on responsible use of resources and building capacity. Their project aims to improve fisheries governance, fight illegal fishing, and adapt to climate change.

FAO delivered two climate-resilient fishing boats to the Ministry of Fisheries. These boats, SL20 and SL23, cost about LKR 9 million. The project also introduced 30 modified fish display stalls across Sri Lanka.

Developing Capacities to Combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

The project aims to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It’s implementing Port State Measures and improving marine resources management. These efforts protect small-scale fishers’ livelihoods and ensure food security in Sri Lanka.

Increasing Resilience to Climate Change

Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector is vulnerable to climate change impacts. The project builds resilience through training and new technologies. Climate-resilient fishing boats are helping the sector adapt to changing conditions.

Reducing Food Loss and Waste in the Fisheries Value Chain

A NARA study found poor maintenance practices among Sri Lankan fish retailers. This leads to significant post-harvest losses. FAO’s new fish display stalls promote better handling and storage practices.

These stalls aim to reduce food loss along the fisheries value chain. The FAO-Norway partnership shows commitment to sustainable fisheries development in Sri Lanka. It addresses IUU fishing, climate change, and post-harvest losses.

This project aims to improve fishing communities’ well-being. It also ensures responsible use of fisheries resources for future generations.

Introducing Technology Upgrades for Sustainability

The FAO is boosting Sri Lanka’s fisheries with new tech upgrades. These aim to tackle issues like post-harvest losses and high fuel use. Advanced cooling, fuel-efficient tech, and AI apps will improve the industry’s sustainability.

Advanced Cooling Systems to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses

New cooling systems on multi-day fishing boats help cut post-harvest losses. These systems keep fish fresh and high-quality. This increases market value and reduces waste.

The upgrade benefits fishermen financially and supports food security. More of the catch now reaches consumers in better condition.

Fuel-Efficient Bulbous Bow Technology to Cut Fuel Consumption

The FAO has added fuel-efficient bulbous bow tech to fishing boats. This design change cuts drag and boosts efficiency. Boats with this tech can save up to 13% on fuel.

Lower fuel use means less cost for fishermen. It also reduces harmful emissions. This tech makes fishing more eco-friendly and cost-effective.

AI-Powered Mobile App for Real-Time Fish Quality Assessment

An AI-powered app now helps assess fish quality in real-time. It quickly checks catch quality against Yellowfin Tuna export standards. The app gives instant feedback on freshness, size, and overall condition.

This tool helps fishers and processors make smart choices. It boosts operations and meets global market needs. The app improves competitiveness and promotes sustainable fishing practices.

Government Supports Private Sector in Advancing Modern Agriculture Technologies
Sri Lanka Boosts Agriculture Tech with Private Partnerships

Sri Lanka Boosts Agriculture Tech with Private Partnerships

Sri Lanka is modernizing its agriculture sector through public-private partnerships. These focus on precision agriculture and digital farming solutions. The government works with the private sector to bring innovation to farmers.

A key project trains farmers’ children to use drones for paddy farming. Agrarian centers provide access to drones. This helps farmers adopt modern practices that improve productivity.

The Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka Air Force, and Civil Aviation Authority are working together. They’re creating guidelines for using drones in farming. This ensures safe and effective integration of drones into agricultural practices.

These efforts pave the way for precision agriculture techniques. They reduce water usage and allow for precise herbicide application. This approach optimizes resource use and boosts crop yields.

The government also supports agritech startups. These companies offer innovative solutions for sustainable farming. This support creates an ecosystem that fosters agricultural innovation.

Sri Lanka is becoming a leader in digital farming solutions. This attracts investment and drives economic growth in rural areas. The country’s efforts are transforming agriculture and empowering farmers.

Smart Agriculture Revolutionizes Paddy Farming

Sri Lanka is transforming paddy farming with smart agriculture. The country trains young farmers in drone technology through innovative partnerships. This initiative aims to optimize resource use and boost productivity with data-driven decisions.

Public-Private Partnerships Train Farmers’ Children in Drone Technology

Leading companies collaborate with government agencies to promote drone technology in paddy farming. These partnerships offer training programs for young farmers to operate drones for agricultural tasks. Sri Lanka is building a tech-savvy workforce to drive the future of smart agriculture.

Data-Driven Decisions Optimize Resource Utilization and Productivity

Drone technology in paddy farming enables data-driven decision-making for better resource use. Advanced drones gather data on soil moisture, nutrients, pests, and crop health. Farmers can pinpoint problem areas and allocate resources efficiently.

This targeted approach improves crop yields and reduces waste. It leads to more efficient and sustainable farming practices.

Drones Reduce Water Usage and Enable Precise Herbicide Application

Drone technology significantly cuts water usage in paddy farming. Traditional herbicide application uses 300-500 liters of water per acre. With drones, farmers need only 20-40 liters per acre.

This water conservation helps protect the environment. Targeted herbicide application also reduces chemical runoff and safeguards the ecosystem.

Government Supports Private Sector in Advancing Modern Agriculture Technologies

Sri Lanka’s government is backing the private sector to modernize farming practices. The Agricultural Modernization Program aims to upgrade 100 Divisional Secretariat Divisions. The first phase includes 25 divisions, with 75 more in the second phase.

This support is vital for promoting climate-smart agriculture and sustainable farming. It helps farmers adopt new technologies and improve their practices.

Department of Agriculture Collaborates with Air Force and Civil Aviation Authority on Drone Guidelines

The Department of Agriculture has teamed up with the Air Force and Civil Aviation Authority. Together, they’ve created guidelines for using drones in farming.

These rules ensure safe and effective drone use in agriculture. They cover crop monitoring, precision farming, and crop spraying.

The clear regulations encourage private sector investment in drone technology. This promotes innovative solutions for the agricultural sector.

Agritech Startups Provide Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Farming Practices

Agritech startups are crucial in developing sustainable farming solutions in Sri Lanka. AiGrow, with seven years of experience, leads in modern agricultural technologies.

AiGrow runs a greenhouse in Nelumdeniya, Kegalle. They grow tomatoes, bell peppers, lettuce, and mushrooms for export and local markets.

The company also produces green agricultural automation devices. They work with local universities to teach AI applications in modern farming.

By 2050, the world aims to increase food production significantly. Agritech startups like AiGrow are essential in reaching this goal.

FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka's Agriculture Sector
FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture

FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and USAID are teaming up with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture. Their $9.2 million initiative aims to boost paddy productivity and diversify crops on marginal land. This collaboration will promote sustainable agricultural development programs in the country.

This partnership arrives at a critical time for Sri Lankan farming. The nation faces challenges after poor harvests in 2022 led to a 50% drop in production. The effort seeks to revive agriculture and support vulnerable farmers across the island.

FAO, with USAID’s support, has already made significant progress in helping Sri Lankan farmers. They provided over 58,700 metric tonnes of essential fertilizers to all paddy farmers within nine months.

The 2023 Yala paddy season sowing covered about 500,000 hectares. This impressive achievement accounts for 92% of the targeted area.

$9.2 Million Initiative to Enhance Paddy Productivity and Diversify Crops

FAO, USAID, and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture have launched a $9.2 million initiative. It aims to boost paddy productivity and promote crop diversification in Sri Lanka. This four-year project will help 10,000 farmers in Hambanthota, Vauniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala districts.

The initiative supports farmers in diversifying 1,250 hectares of paddy lands during the Yala season. It promotes sustainable farming practices and growing suitable cash crops. The project also encourages efficient water and fertilizer use on 5,000 acres of paddy.

Streamlining Supply Chains for Smallholder Farmer Support

A key goal is establishing streamlined supply chains for smallholder farmers. This ensures timely access to affordable supplies and machinery. The project aims to boost productivity and profitability in Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector.

The partnership addresses challenges like low labor productivity and the need for diversification. It promotes sustainable farming practices to increase agricultural output. The initiative also aims to boost export earnings and energize the rural economy.

Building on Previous US Support and Donations to Sri Lankan Farmers

The FAO and USAID partnership aims to revitalize Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector. This builds on the US’s vital support for Sri Lankan farmers during the recent economic crisis. In 2022, the US provided crucial fertilizer donations to help paddy farmers.

The US donated 36,000 metric tons of Triple Super Phosphate to Sri Lanka. They also provided 9,800 metric tons of urea during the economic crisis. These fertilizers went to over 1 million vulnerable paddy farmers for free.

Crucial Support for Vulnerable Paddy Farmers

FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture teamed up to distribute the donated fertilizers. They focused on reaching the most vulnerable paddy farmers in Sri Lanka. This effort helped farmers keep their jobs and ensure food security.

The new $9.2 million partnership strengthens US support for Sri Lankan farmers. It focuses on sustainable farming, crop diversity, and efficient resource use. The project aims to boost smallholder farmers’ resilience and profits.

FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture Sector

The FAO and USAID have teamed up with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture. Their $9.2 million project aims to boost the country’s farming sector. This initiative will help 10,000 farmers in four districts: Hambanthota, Vauniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala.

The four-year program will improve paddy productivity and crop variety. Farmers will grow cash crops on 1,250 hectares during the Yala season. The project will also promote efficient use of water and fertilizer on 5,000 acres of paddy.

FAO Representative Vimlendra Sharan highlighted the partnership’s importance. He said it combines resources and expertise to build resilience in agriculture. FAO and USAID will work closely with Sri Lanka’s government to ensure success.

This project builds on previous US support for Sri Lankan farmers. In 2022, the US donated fertilizer to over 1 million paddy farmers. The current initiative aims to strengthen agriculture and improve farmers’ lives.