Background

1981 saw the birth of the Fruit and Vegetable Export Industry of Sri Lanka, which was initiated by the efforts of a few Sri Lankan Exporters.

Moreover, history tells us that the most significant reason for the Arabs, Portuguese and the Dutch to have come to Sri Lanka was the availability of Spices within the country. Therefore, in addition to Tea, Rubber and Coconut; Spices too are a prime export produce of Sri Lanka for many centuries.

As of today the Association is proud to celebrate over 25 years in the trade and the annual export earnings of the Fruit & Vegetable Export Industry is in the region of Rs 3,000 Million. Moreover, the growth of this Industry has also benefited the following sectors;

1.The National Carrier enjoys a major share of the freight income which accounts to more than 55% of the gross revenue.

2.Of the balance 45% of revenue earned by this Industry, more than 80% (in excess of Rs. 1,080 Million) trickles down to the grassroots of the rural economy in Sri Lanka.

3.Approximately 8000 farmer families have directly benefited as a result of the growth of the Industry, over the last 25 years.