Ceylon Chamber of Coconut Industries inaugurated to propel Sri Lanka’s coconut sector to global heights

The Ceylon Chamber of Coconut Industries (CCCI) announces its inauguration, marking a historic milestone in Sri Lanka's coconut industry. The inaugural meeting, held on August 29, 2024, at the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, convened key industry stakeholders and highlighted the significance of this unified organization for sustainable growth, innovation, and global market reach.

As the first organization 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 USD 800 million. By fostering collaboration across all industry sectors, the CCCI aspires to elevate Sri Lankan coconut products' quality and global competitiveness, targeting an export revenue of USD 1.5 billion.

Notably, the formation of the CCCI has been facilitated by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) 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 establishment of the CCCI represents a new era for Sri Lanka's coconut industry," said Ranil De Saram, Senior Partner at Ernst & Young and the first General Secretary of the CCCI. "Our mission is to unify the industry, drive innovation, and advocate for policies that support sustainable growth. This chamber will serve as the collective voice of the coconut industry, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned in our pursuit of excellence."

The coconut industry, often hailed as the backbone of rural Sri Lanka, occupies approximately 455,000 hectares of land and provides livelihoods for nearly one million people. The CCCI will focus on enhancing the industry's competitiveness through strategic planning, market expansion, and research-driven innovation. By promoting sustainable practices and supporting product diversification, the chamber aims to position Sri Lanka as a global leader in coconut production.

"The launch of the CCCI is a critical step towards unlocking the full potential of the coconut industry in Sri Lanka." said Dr. Jairo Villamil Diaz, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Senior International Technical Specialist. "UNIDO, through the European Union funded BESPA-FOOD project, is proud to support the formation of the CCCI, which promises to transform the industry into a future focused sector that will improve the lives and earning potential of all stakeholders along the coconut value-chain."

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, the Exporters Association of Coconut Based Substrates, the Sri Lanka Virgin Coconut Oil Manufacturers Association, the Coconut Product Manufacturers and Exporters Association, the Ceylon Desiccated Coconut Manufacturers Association, the Ceylon Coir Fiber Manufacturers Association, the Coconut Milk Manufacturers Association, and the All Ceylon Coconut Oil Manufacturers Association. United in their dedication, these associations are focused on advocating for coherent policies and ensuring the long-term sustainability of coconut farming in Sri Lanka.

The CCCI is also backed by key partners in the state sector, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, the Coconut Development Authority (CDA), the Coconut Cultivation Board (CCB), and the Coconut Research Institute (CRI). Their involvement underscores a collaborative effort to elevate Sri Lanka's coconut industry to new heights.

Looking ahead, CCCI envisions a dynamic and robust coconut industry that supports the nation's food security and enhances the livelihoods of all stakeholders. The chamber is committed to promoting sustainable production practices, driving innovation in product development, and expanding into new markets globally.

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, CCCI is positioning Sri Lanka as a leader in the global coconut industry.