Govt. launches ‘Northern Coconut Triangle’ to boost production, exports

Sri Lanka marked World Coconut Day with a significant milestone as it officially launched its second Coconut Triangle in the Northern Province on Saturday.

The initiative aims at revitalising the coconut industry and enhancing coconut-related exports. 

The ceremony, held at the Model Coconut Garden in Jaffna Palai, was presided over by the Industries and Plantation Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana. 

The ‘Northern Coconut Triangle’ is a strategic development encompassing all five districts of the Northern Province, with Jaffna, Mullaitivu, and Mannar at its core. This project seeks to revitalise the coconut sector in this region, fostering economic growth and bolstering Sri Lanka’s position as a leading exporter of coconut products. 

Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Dr. Pathirana said the expectation is to boost the export income of coconut-related products to $ 2 billion in the next 5 years.

Highlighting the significance of coconut cultivation, he revealed that Sri Lanka achieved a historic coconut yield of 3.2 billion nuts in 2022, and the industry generated an income of $ 817 million the previous year. 

Dr. Pathirana also outlined the Government’s efforts to promote the coconut-related industry, including the distribution of six million coconut saplings in 2022, initiatives to control pests and diseases, and the protection of coconut trees through amendments to tree felling regulations. 

He also emphasised the vital role of the coconut tree in various aspects of daily life and the economy. “Coconut trees are integral to food products, agricultural inputs, decorative handicrafts, and numerous consumer goods. They play a crucial role in both domestic and export economies,” he added.

As part of the ‘Northern Coconut Triangle’ project, the Minister announced the planting of three million new coconut trees, symbolising the commitment to rejuvenating the coconut industry in the Northern Province. 

To further boost the industry’s growth and productivity, the Industry 2023 Jaffna Edition exhibition was organised. This event aims to encourage the industrial culture of the north and attract value-added manufacturing industries to the region, aligning with the Government’s vision for the coconut plantations initiated through the ‘Northern Coconut Triangle.’ 

Dr. Pathirana called on stakeholders to engage in industry innovation, emphasising the Government’s support in facilitating this endeavour. 

The event also recognised outstanding coconut growers from the Northern Province for their contributions to the industry.

Vanni District Member of Parliament K. Thilipan, Plantation Industries Ministry Secretary Janaka Dharma Keerthy, Coconut Cultivation Board Chairman Madhavi Herath, Coconut Development Authority Chairman Prof. Roshan Perera, and Coconut Research Institute Chairman Malraj Peiris, were present to celebrate this milestone alongside Government officials and local residents.