Sri Lanka’s GI-certified cinnamon products go global
The Morning: Sri Lanka’s renowned Ceylon Cinnamon, traditionally exported in bulk to the international market without value addition, is set for a shift with its newly awarded Geographical Indication (GI) certification.
According to Export Development Board (EDB) Director of Export Agriculture Janak Sanjeewa Badugama, plans are underway to export a minimum of 30% value-added cinnamon products from GI-certified entities in Sri Lanka.
Highlighting the critical need for a traceability system, he said: “Without traceability, international markets will not accept our products.”
The GI certification ensures that Ceylon Cinnamon can only be marketed under Sri Lankan origins, distinguishing it from other varieties like cassia (Chinese cinnamon), which often blend into global markets.
Badugama noted that while Sri Lanka exported Ceylon Cinnamon worldwide, more than 90% of shipments ended up in Mexico, where they were often mixed with cassia before sale.
Establishing a traceability system involves linking the entire value chain to enable consumers to easily trace the origin of each product. Currently, the process relies on a manual system due to delays in developing required software, which necessitates additional funding and time.
“We are currently in negotiations with international agencies and evaluating software systems,” Badugama revealed, underscoring the need to integrate Global Positioning System (GPS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies into the traceability efforts.
Furthermore, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) plays a pivotal role in supporting marketing initiatives through exhibitions, delegations, networking events, and roadshows.
The Cinnamon Development Department oversees the certification process, auditing stakeholders through self-control, internal control, and external control mechanisms before issuing the GI certification.
Additionally, GI associations across Sri Lanka, comprising farmers, processors, and manufacturers, collaborate to enhance the value and recognition of Ceylon Cinnamon in global markets.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s GI-certified cinnamon is fast becoming a key export product of the country with international support. The European Union (EU), a few weeks back, expressed interest in supporting Sri Lanka’s cinnamon access premium international markets. It is a clear indication of the growth and business potential in the local cinnamon products. The many trade agreements and trade concessions enjoyed by Sri Lanka with other countries have helped expand Sri Lanka’s cinnamon exports. Given the growing business potential in Sri Lanka’s cinnamon industry, foreign businesses/investors could confidently explore the expanding business/investment opportunities in the industry.