Technology innovation towards accelerated growth and transformation of spice sector in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Sri Lanka has a long history of spice gardening and product export, extending up to the antiquity of the civilization. During and after the British Colonial era, prominence of spice exports shifted to plantation crops (tea, rubber and coconut). At Present spice exports increase due to elevated demand, and emerging new thinking on natural products. Spices and essential oils are widely invaded the industries related to food, culinary, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals cosmetics etc. In order to keep up with the current export demand, production levels of spice crops are to be increased to meet the market needs through technology incorporation, product diversification and new market attrarts. The sector needs a new platform for technology innovation and transformation, mixing traditional and modern to get the market dominance and competitive advantage.