Rs. 20b export target for fruits, vegetables possible

Lack of produce due to adverse weather conditions have resulted in a drop in exports of fruits and vegetables, said President National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) Sarath De Silva.

He said that though there is a temporary drop in exports due to lack of produce achieving the $ 20 bln export revenue target by 2015 was possible.

The situation in the Middle East is also affecting the export of fruits and vegetables but despite these problems we are working hard to achieve the target.

As the infusion of new technology is the best solution to increase volumes our members are in the process of infusing new technology.

The Api Wawamu Rata Nagamu concept launched by President Mahinda Rajapaksa has inspired people to grow fruits and vegetables and this will help the country in the event of a global food crisis. The NCE has also launched a program to motivate university students to become entrepreneurs. This will help fill the vacuum and also allow them to give employment to others in time to come, he said.

De Silva said that the NCE will shift to its own state-of-the-art building by December.

He said that they are ready with the funds and are waiting till the UDA together with the Ministry of Economic Development allocates a block of land.

"As soon as the land is given we will start construction. Once the building is completed we will have a permanent expo displaying all the products exported from Sri Lanka in addition to the library and research centre as well as a computer centre and conference hall.

It will also have a logistics centre to support exporters.

- SG