Sri Lanka is not yet a major exporter of fresh fruits and vegetables to the EU market, but experts agree it has great potential. IPD Expert Sourcing & Markets, Linda Mense, has stated in Sri Lanka on the Fruit Logistica, the leading trade fair for fruits, vegetables and spices to be held from February 3-5 in Berlin, Germany, that Sri Lanka should take steps to increase visibility in the global market by being present at international trade fairs which will help increase awareness of the country’s potential to supply quality agri based products to the global market.

According to trade experts, there is huge potential for Sri Lankan agriculture products in the EU market but strategic promotion and awareness campaigns are needed to move forward. “Trade statistics show that the demand for fresh fruits and vegetables in Germany is growing while demand for plums, coconut, chilli pepper, papaya, banana and pineapple in EU markets are on the rise. Germany topped the list for imports of fresh fruits in 2017 followed by the Netherlands, UK and France.”

Chief Delegate of the Delegation of the German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka, Andreas Hergenrother stressed the importance of raising awareness of products ‘Made in Sri Lanka’ in international markets and increasing business opportunities Sri Lankan fresh fruit and vegetable exports. Fruit Logistica attracts over 3,300 exhibitors from over 90 countries and over 72,000 visitors from over 135 countries each year.