Coconut imports imperative for export revenue surge
Local authorities are still awaiting approval to lift the ban on the import of coconut kernels, for which a Cabinet paper was submitted, for the export market as prices and demand have reached a high in the global market.
Despite the cabinet paper being submitted authorities are also looking at prospects to ensure that they can provide the export market with the necessary coconuts from the local produce by promoting the use of packeted coconut milk and coconut milk powder by carrying out a campaign in this regard, Coconut Development Authority Deputy Director Marketing M.M. Pushpakantha told The Sunday Times Business on Thursday.
Sri Lanka had imported coconut kernels from Indonesia for the export manufacturing market back in 2018/19 and 2021, he said.
With farm gate prices reaching Rs.100 and retail prices going upto Rs.120 and Rs.150 the industry is hoping to ensure that by importing coconut kernels they can overcome the existing shortage in the local market.
Currently there is a shortage of about 250 million nuts in the local market and of this 150 million nuts are required for the export market, Mr. Pushpakantha said.
He noted that they have placed a limit at the auction on the industry not to go beyond this price as it would mean a further hike in the retail price as well.
The immediate import of coconut kernels is necessary to provide the necessary supply to the local export industry and to ensure that they are capable of taking advantage of the high global demand that has pushed up prices in the world market, the Deputy Director said.
Mr. Pushpakantha noted that they are currently involved in developing programmes aimed at creating awareness among Sri Lankan consumers on the benefits of using packeted coconut milk and coconut milk powder.
He noted that at present this kind of coconut milk is popular only among urban homes where due to the busy lifestyle preparing meals has been made easy by using these packeted coconut based products.
Hitad.lk has you covered with quality used or brand new cars for sale that are budget friendly yet reliable! Now is the time to sell your old ride for something more attractive to today's modern automotive market demands. Browse through our selection of affordable options now on Hitad.lk before deciding on what will work best for you!