(Commonwealth)_ A delegation comprising nine representatives from Sri Lanka embarked on a transformative journey to the Anuga FoodTec trade fair in Köln, Germany. This delegation, representing key stakeholders from various sectors including the Ministry of Agriculture, Elpitiya Plantation, Eastern and Allied Agencies, and Hettigoda Industries, was organized by the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka). The primary objective of this initiative was to provide these delegates with a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements in food production, processing, packaging, and storage.
Anuga FoodTec, renowned as a global leader in showcasing innovations across the entire spectrum of food technology, kicked off on March 19, 2024. It serves as the ultimate destination for industry professionals seeking to remain at the forefront of developments in the field. For the Sri Lankan delegates, this visit presented a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cutting-edge technologies that are revolutionizing the food processing industry worldwide.
Throughout their visit, the Sri Lankan delegates were introduced to a plethora of cutting-edge technologies in various facets of food processing. From innovative harvesting techniques to efficient supply chain management, from state-of-the-art packaging solutions to advanced labeling systems, the delegates gained valuable insights into the latest trends shaping the industry. One particularly noteworthy aspect of their visit was the introduction of “freeze drying” machines. These machines offer a groundbreaking solution to combat food wastage by extending the shelf life of perishable foods to up to 2 years. Moreover, these machines are lauded for their energy efficiency during production, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Malintha Gajanayake, Head of Corporate Affairs and Export Promotions at the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka emphasized the profound importance of the delegation’s engagement at Anuga FoodTec. As the official representative of bilateral economic relations between Sri Lanka and Germany, AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in facilitating this initiative. Gajanayake remarked, “We firmly believe that this endeavor will not only empower the delegation but also elevate Sri Lanka to unprecedented levels of competitiveness in the global market.”
The participation of the Sri Lankan delegation at Anuga FoodTec underscores the nation’s commitment to embracing innovation and adopting best practices in food production and technology. By leveraging the knowledge and insights gained from this international platform, Sri Lankan businesses aim to enhance their competitiveness and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the food and agriculture sector.
AHK Sri Lanka, operating within the framework of the German Chamber Network and backed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), serves as a linchpin in strengthening economic relations between Sri Lanka and Germany. By orchestrating initiatives such as the delegation’s participation in events like Anuga FoodTec, AHK Sri Lanka facilitates a dynamic exchange of knowledge, fosters strategic business partnerships, and catalyzes innovation across critical sectors.
The involvement of the Sri Lankan delegation at Anuga FoodTec represents a significant stride in the nation’s trajectory toward embracing cutting-edge technologies in food production. By capitalizing on the latest advancements showcased at the trade fair, Sri Lankan enterprises are positioned to elevate their competitive edge in the global arena. This proactive engagement not only augments the nation’s economic prowess but also contributes to the sustainable growth and resilience of the food and agriculture industry.
AHK Sri Lanka’s pivotal role in fostering economic cooperation, coupled with the proactive participation of Sri Lankan delegates at platforms like Anuga FoodTec, underscores the collective commitment to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and propelling sustainable development in Sri Lanka’s economic landscape.
