LFVPPEA opens up opportunities for value addition of fruits and vegetables

Thursday, 28 February 2019 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The findings of a feasibility study for value addition and strategic plan for LFVPPEA is presented to stakeholders at Renuka Hotel in Colombo on 26 February. More than 40 stakeholders from private and public sectors, development partners, buyers, international experts gather together to discuss the findings and create opportunities for working together, address the challenges in an inclusive way.

LFVPPEA Chairman Zuraish Hashim

ITC Export Quaility Manegement Advisor Ludovica Ghizzoni

ITC International Consultant Venkhat Prahlad

ITC National Consultant Dr. Shanthi Wilson Wijeratnam

LFVPPEA has taken a leading role in the development of the F&V sector since 2013 when a project funded by the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and LFVPPEA improved compliance of the fresh F&V from Sri Lanka with quality and food safety requirements. Following within the framework of another project, funded by the STDF and implemented LFVPPEA with ITC, the study and the strategy were developed and partnerships opportunities opened.

The study found that the market for natural (sugar-free and no preservatives) and organic dehydrated product is growing and identified at least five products with potential led by pineapple and mango.

Sri Lanka is challenged from taking advantage of this growth due to limited availability of raw materials, price and a greater need to adhere to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).

Sri Lanka varieties are very unique and have potential to be positioned as higher quality products for discerning customers for both fresh and processed and in particular dehydrated. This is proved by the establishment of a new partnership with a leading company in Italy in the dehydrated sector, namely Noberasco. After almost three years of engagement and a series of reciprocal visits to Italy and Sri Lanka, Noberasco and the LFVPPEA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Colombo on 22 February to join efforts to take the Sri Lanka brand to the next level.

LFVPPEA is now making a call to work together to address the challenges and to avail of the full potential of the partnership and the uniqueness of Sri Lanka fruits in the global market place for the benefits of all, from farmers to consumers.