Thursday, 19 December 2013 00:15
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Exports of spices in 2013 up to the month of October increased sharply by 40.38%, in comparison to 2012.
Pepper and cloves showed a significant increase of 81.82% and 223.35% and cinnamon has performed better, while exports of essential oil have also increased by 22.55%, according to a statement by the Spices & Allied Products Producers and Traders Association (SAPPTA).
The spice sector has performed extremely well in terms of value as well as volume. Exporters have been able to achieve this mainly due to successfully performing in existing markets and emerging export markets. Increase in value can be attributed to increases in value added products and increased unit prices.
The increasing production by the small holder sector also contributed mainly towards this achievement, as they are encouraged through the Government subsidy scheme for fertiliser.
The services offered by the regional officers and extension officers of Department of Export Agriculture, industry assistance offered by the Ministry of Minor Export Crops Promotion, Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Divi Neguma and Gama Neguma programs of Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa have contributed to this accomplishment.
SAPPTA and The Spice Council Chairman Sarada de Silva stated that the combined efforts of SAPPTA and The Spice Council were highlighted throughout this achievement. “Continuous support and assistance provided by the Government to the spice sector has helped the sector to perform extremely well,” he added.
On behalf of SAPPTA and The Spice Council, he expressed his gratitude to President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa, Minister of Minor Export Crop Promotion Reginald Cooray, Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen and Secretary to the Treasury Dr. P.B. Jayasundera for all the assistance given to the spice industry.
