Financial Times

Ceylon Chocolates in India

Ceylon Chocolates Ltd., which markets the 'Kandos' and 'Newgen' brands, recently launched its products in South India.

"The company's vision is to be a serious player in the chocolate and confectionery business in the South East Asian region," a company statement said.

CCL, a member of the Upali Group, has been in the confectionery business for 40 years and is now seeking international markets.

It has invested Rs 150 million to enhance capacity and improve product quality at its plant in Kundasale, Kandy.

The company said its main competitive advantage over international rivals in India is the unique taste of its products, which come from closely guarded recipes and the unique flavour of Sri Lankan cocoa beans.

The company's export programme has been expanded to cover the Maldives, the Middle east, parts of Europe and most recently, India.