The Ministry of Agriculture in Sri Lanka has established goals to increase the production of fruit in order to satisfy the increasing demand for domestic food and lessen dependence on imports. Minister Mahinda Amaraweera outlined the significant increase in consumption which will be 12.8 million tonnes by 2023. He also laid out the strategy of the government to increase the yield of mangoes, bananas and papayas as well as pineapples and passion fruit. The initiative is a response to the issue posed by the present consumption rate over the country’s capacities for production the annual requirements of 19.6 million tonnes.

Director General Acting Director General Dr. Kamani Ranatunga detailed the objectives for production in 2027 and aims for significant increases in the production per hectare for key fruit. This strategy involves adopting modern agriculture practices, including hybrid and variety breeding and high density planting, as well as integrated pest control, as well as increased nutrient management to meet these goals. Minister Amaraweera highlighted the significance of self-sufficiency for fruit production in order to limit foreign exchange expenses in imports. He cited the issue as a priority for national policy.

Source: island.lk