Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Thursday, 23 January 2025 05:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath yesterday said the poultry industry achieved a significant breakthrough as China opened its market for direct imports of poultry products from Sri Lanka.
Addressing a media briefing, he said the new avenue offers an opportunity for the poultry industry to directly export chicken heads and feet – a by-product of its meat processing industry, which helps the economy to boost its foreign exchange revenue.
“This was a request made by the industry and we were able to secure it during the recent visit. The industry can immediately start, subject to certifications and buyers,” Herath said.
On 6 January, the Cabinet of Ministers approved a proposal to facilitate the export of chicken parts from Sri Lanka to China. The agreement, drafted in collaboration with China’s General Administration of Customs, outlines health requirements and quarantine procedures to ensure compliance with export standards.
The proposal to this effect, submitted by Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation Minister K.D. Lalkantha to sign the said agreement between the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministry, was unanimously approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
Separately, Sri Lanka Association of Animal Production Chairman Ajith Gunasekara hailed the development as a long-awaited victory, noting its immense potential for the industry and the broader economy.
“This is a major achievement to be able to export a ‘Made in Sri Lanka’ poultry product,” he told the Daily FT.
Gunasekara added that for the past six years, the industry has been requesting direct access to the Chinese market given its size and the associated benefits. “Till now, trade barriers forced us to export via intermediaries in Vietnam. The direct access therefore will significantly enhance our profitability,” he stated.
Noting that there are 15 large-scale broiler chicken processing companies, he said they have identified chicken feet and heads, typically considered a by-product used mostly in South East Asian countries, to have a substantial demand.
“By tapping into this market, companies aim to boost their income streams and contribute to the economy as a foreign exchange generating sector as well,” he added.
Gunasekara noted that being a bird flu-free country gives Sri Lanka a significant competitive advantage, making its poultry products particularly attractive to the international market. He also said that the Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH), as well as the Export Development Board (EDB), is working closely with the industry to ensure that exporters meet all regulatory and certification requirements for direct trade with China.
Beyond by-products, he said with necessary institutional support and industry readiness, the poultry sector is poised to seize the opportunity and scale new heights.
“Our next goal is to penetrate the market for chicken meat,” he said.
