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Organic Farming in Sri Lanka

U. R. Sangakkara and S. Katupitiya

University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

Full Paper (PDF File: 39KB)

Abstract

The agricultural production system in Sri Lanka consists of two traditional and well-defined components. One is the plantation section, established during the colonial period, consisting of large units, and producing perennial crops such as coffee, tea, rubber, and coconut mainly for export. The other is the smallholder sector comprised of small farms which produce most of the country's rice, vegetables, legumes, tubers, spices, and fruits. Fertilizers and pesticides have long been used for the production of plantation crops in Sri Lanka. Until several decades ago, most of the smallholder operations were farmed with little or no input of agricultural chemicals. Today, with emphasis on greater production to meet increased food demands, the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides is increasing throughout the smallholder sector: There is also growing interest and demand for producing organically-grown food products for export. Some production units have already experienced considerable success in such ventures. Organic food production and marketing could be greatly expanded in Sri Lanka. However, research is needed to develop organic farming systems and practices that are efficient, productive, and profitable.