Workshop on Improvement of Fruit and Vegetable Exports through Research and Development
The "Workshop on Improvement of Fruit and Vegetable Exports through Research and Development" was held on 19th December, 2023, at the Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy (SLCARP) with 32 researchers, policymakers, and exporters in attendance. The aim was to address issues in cultivation, post-harvest handling, value addition, and exports, and to identify research needs to promote fruit and vegetable exports.
Dr. J.D.H. Wijewardena, Chairman of SLCARP, welcomed participants and outlined the workshop's objectives. Seven presentations were given to raise awareness. Highlights included:
- Dr. Thushara Wickramaarachchi discussed the Department of Agriculture's support for vegetable exports, challenges faced by exporters, and opportunities for strengthening the sector.
- Ms. K.A. Renuka explained the Department of Agriculture's role in enhancing fruit exports through research and development.
- Prof. Ilmi Hewajulige emphasized the importance of post-harvest management and value addition.
- Ms. Himani Gammanpila introduced the Fruit Sector Stakeholder Information Management System.
- Mr. S.K.A. Dewage outlined sector challenges, including quality, production consistency, pricing, and logistics, and proposed strengthening the entire value chain.
- Ms. Jayani Gaalagedara discussed the Export Development Board's promotional activities.
- Ms. Ganiesha De Silva highlighted the role of the Sri Lanka Standards Institution in enhancing product quality and discussed about available SLS standards for the sector.
An interactive discussion followed, identifying key issues such as the lack of high-yielding seeds, certified farmer fields, production inconsistency, and the need for a mechanism to support all value chain actors. Proposals included conducting a market survey to develop a database on market demand (both export and local) for particular fruits and vegetables and developing integrated crop management packages for high-potential export crops.
The workshop concluded with a call for collaborative efforts to address sector challenges and improve fruit and vegetable exports. Dr. SMP Chandra Padmini acknowledged the participants' contributions, and the workshop ended at 3:30 pm.