(Commonwealth_ With a bold vision to transform Sri Lanka’s coconut industry into a global powerhouse, the Ceylon Chamber of Coconut Industries (CCCI) was recently inaugurated, marking a significant milestone for the sector. The organization has set an ambitious target of increasing the country’s annual coconut production to 4.5 billion nuts within the next five years, a substantial leap from the current production level of three billion nuts. As the first organization of its kind in Sri Lanka, the CCCI aims to unlock the vast potential of the coconut industry, which currently generates over $800 million in annual export revenue. However, despite this impressive figure, the sector’s contribution to Sri Lanka’s $80 billion economy remains under 1%. Recognizing the need for a major overhaul, the CCCI is determined to drive a green revolution within the industry, focusing on sustainable growth, value addition, and technological innovation.
Speaking at the inauguration event, which was held last week at the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, Ernst & Young Senior Partner and CCCI General Secretary Ranil De Saram highlighted the need for this transformation. He emphasized that the industry’s modest contribution to the national economy signals the necessity for redirection and change. “Our economy needs redirection and change. The only way we can do that is to have a green revolution which is agro-based,” De Saram stated. This green revolution is crucial as the coconut industry has been facing challenges, including a gradual decline in the coconut tree population. To reverse this trend and boost the industry, De Saram underscored the importance of innovation, research, and increased productivity. The CCCI’s initiatives are centered around these key areas, with the goal of not only reviving the industry but also expanding it significantly both domestically and internationally.
Sunpower Systems Chairman and CCCI First President Jayantha Samarakoon echoed these sentiments, noting that while Sri Lanka’s current coconut production stands at three billion nuts annually, the CCCI’s target is to boost this figure to 4.5 billion nuts within the next five years. This ambitious goal reflects the organization’s commitment to expanding the coconut industry within Sri Lanka and enhancing its competitiveness in the global market. To achieve these objectives, the CCCI has outlined several strategic initiatives, including the development of a comprehensive 10-year plan. This plan will guide the industry’s growth and ensure its long-term sustainability. In addition, the chamber will advocate for coherent national policies that support the coconut sector, while also fostering research and development efforts. These initiatives are designed to address the industry’s current challenges and position Sri Lanka as a leader in the global coconut market.
The formation of the CCCI was facilitated by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) as part of the European Union-funded BESPA-FOOD project, with support from Ernst & Young. The chamber has also garnered backing from key industry associations, demonstrating a unified commitment to revitalizing Sri Lanka’s coconut sector. Among the eight founding members of the CCCI are the Coconut Growers Association of Sri Lanka, the Exporters Association of Coconut Based Substrates, the Sri Lanka Virgin Coconut Oil Manufacturers Association, the Coconut Product Manufacturers and Exporters Association, the Ceylon Desiccated Coconut Manufacturers Association, the Ceylon Coir Fiber Manufacturers Association, the Coconut Milk Manufacturers Association, and the All Ceylon Coconut Oil Manufacturers Association. This broad coalition of industry stakeholders reflects the widespread support for the CCCI’s mission.
