USAID, CBL Group release handbook to tackle coconut production shortage

CBL Global Foods Limited (CBL GFL), a subsidiary of the CBL Group, in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) this week released a practical handbook to improve coconut farming practices in Sri Lanka.

Supported by USAID’s CATALYZE Private Sector Development (PSD) Activity, the handbook is aimed at helping coconut farmers learn advanced farming techniques and meet the country’s demand of 4,500 million coconuts annually.

“We want to drive the growth and development of Sri Lanka’s coconut industry while empowering the farmers who form its foundation. By offering accessible and practical resources, we aim to enhance farmers’ knowledge and production capabilities, enabling them to overcome productivity challenges and adapt to environmental changes, “Group Managing Director of CBL Group Shea Wickramasingha said.

Currently, Sri Lanka produces only 3,000 million coconuts each year, falling short in catering both its domestic consumption and export potential as coconut farmers face critical challenges in cultivation such as low yields, water stress and pest issues.

In response to these challenges, the handbook provides practical solutions by focusing on 4 key areas, including water management, nutrient balancing, pest control and climate adaptation.

“Our goal is to help farmers produce at least 100 coconuts per tree annually within three years,” CEO of CBL Global Foods Randeewa Malalasooriya said.

Furthermore, USAID Sri Lanka and Maldives Mission Director Gabriel Grau highlighted that the initiative is an example of the United States and Sri Lanka working together to build a resilient agricultural economy.

“By promoting climate-smart practices, we are enabling farmers to adapt to climate challenges and secure better livelihoods,” Grau said.

The handbook will be initially distributed to 250 small- and medium-scale farmers in selected districts. Available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, the initiative aims to eventually reach over 1 million coconut producers across the country.