Increase in Fruit consumption to 12.8 tons in Sri Lanka

The Department of Agriculture reports that fruit consumption in Sri Lanka rose to 12.8 million metric tons (1,283,039 metric tons) in 2023. However, the country's annual fruit requirement stands at 19.6 million metric tons (1,969,371 metric tons).

A notable increase in the production of bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and papayas contributed significantly to this rise. Additionally, the export of fruits saw an increase, with 38,201 metric tons exported in 2023.

Dr. Kamani Ranatunga, Acting Director General of the Department of Agriculture, presented a strategic plan for the growth of the agricultural sector by 2027 to the Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mr. Mahinda Amaraweera. The plan aims to enhance fruit production metrics per hectare, targeting bananas (19.5 metric tons), mangoes (9.5 metric tons), papayas (45 metric tons), pineapples (14 metric tons), and passion fruits (30 metric tons).

To achieve these targets, several technical measures are proposed, including variety breeding, hybrid variety breeding, high-density cultivation, integrated pest control, introduction of plant nutrients, reduction of crop damage, and introduction of value-added production technology.

Minister Amaraweera has directed efforts to cultivate all viable crops within the country, with a particular focus on producing fruits domestically that are currently imported.