By Nishel Fernando 

Marking a new beginning for Sri Lanka’s coconut industry, the Ceylon Chamber of Coconut Industries (CCCI) at the National Chamber of Commerce was inaugurated this week, with a mid-term target to boost the annual production to 4.5 billion nuts and generate US $ 3-4.5 billion export revenue.

The CCCI has garnered support from key industry associations, bringing together a total of eight founding members committed to advancing Sri Lanka’s coconut industry. These associations include the Coconut Growers Association of Sri Lanka, Exporters Association of Coconut Based Substrates, Sri Lanka Virgin Coconut Oil Manufacturers Association, Coconut Product Manufacturers and Exporters Association, Ceylon Desiccated Coconut Manufacturers Association, Ceylon Coir Fiber Manufacturers Association, Coconut Milk Manufacturers Association and All-Ceylon Coconut Oil Manufacturers Association. 

As the first organisation of its kind in Sri Lanka, the CCCI aims to harness the vast potential of the nation’s coconut industry. The industry contributes significantly to the economy, with annual export revenues exceeding US $ 800 million. By fostering collaboration across all industry sectors, the CCCI aspires to elevate the Sri Lankan coconut products’ quality and global competitiveness, targeting an export revenue of US $ 1.5 billion.

Notably, the formation of the CCCI has been facilitated by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation within the scope of the European Union-funded BESPA-Food project and Ernst & Young. This collaboration is poised to propel Sri Lanka’s coconut sector to new global heights of prosperity.

The chamber’s initiatives include developing a 10-year strategic plan, advocating for coherent national policies and supporting research and development efforts to ensure the industry’s long-term success. With a strategic focus on sustainability, value addition and technology integration, the CCCI is positioning Sri Lanka as a leader in the global coconut industry.