Pineapple cultivation in Gampaha district: Current status, opportunities and challenges

Abstract

Pineapple cultivation plays a significant role in enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in the Gampaha District, contributing to their income, employment, and overall economic stability. The objectives of this study were to examine the socio-economic characteristics of pineapple growers, assess their production and marketing practices, evaluate financial aspects, identify the key challenges and explore potential opportunities associated with pineapple cultivation in this area. Data were collected using a structured pre-tested questionnaire. One hundred pineapple growers across four DS divisions were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The results revealed that most farmers (90%) grow pineapples on their own land, with an average yield of 5,063.81 kg per acre. Despite the profitability of pineapple farming, most farmers engage in it as a part-time job due to the long crop cycle of 18–24 months and economic uncertainties. This study highlights that 92% of farmers earn over Rs. 500,000 per harvest in Gampaha district, but face high production costs, limited access to quality planting materials, and fluctuating market prices. Farmers predominantly rely on wholesalers (90%) to sell their produce, with an average selling price of Rs 340 per kilogram. Labor costs are substantial, with 92% farmers hiring external labor for farming activities. A lack of insurance coverage and minimal access to extension services (92%) of farmers receive no formal agricultural guidance further constrain productivity and financial stability. Regression analysis revealed that education level (p=0.000), land size (p=0.026) and type of labor (p=0.058) significantly affect income from pineapple farming. The study also identifies key challenges, including high input costs and lack of government support. Opportunities exist to implement subsidized input programs, improve market price regulations and enhanced training programs to improve productivity and sustainability. Overall, pineapple cultivation contributes significantly to the livelihoods of farmers in Gampaha District. This research is timely due to the growing demand for pineapple, rising input costs and the need to improve farmer income and sustainability aimed market challenges.