Seminar on CPIS for cinnamon exports

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) conducted the first awareness program on Compulsory Pre-Inspection Scheme (CPIS) for cinnamon exports which will come into effect from January 1, 2014. Over 100 members from the industry were present.

The scheme was introduced to ensure that quality standards for cinnamon are maintained in international markets.

The seminar was conducted in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Standards Institute and the Department of Export Agriculture, to create awareness among those in the cinnamon industry about the CPIS for cinnamon exports to obtain premium prices in international markets and in our man markets such as USA, Mexico, Peru, Colombia and EU region.

The EDB has established 'Pure Ceylon Cinnamon' as a global brand in the international market. It has completed registration of the trademark associated with the 'Pure Ceylon Cinnamon' brand in main markets such as the USA and EU.

The EDB has also obtained the certificate of registration from the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) under the Madrid Protocol which enabled the EDB to register it directly in Mexico, the largest importer of Sri Lanka's cinnamon.

It is also planned to issue the distinctive Lion logo associated with 'Pure Ceylon Cinnamon' brand for cinnamon and cinnamon based products under the proposed scheme.

Regional level workshops will also be organised by the relevant authorities to create an awareness about the CPIS and this will support the cinnamon industry to enhance quality, food safety measures and to meet the requirements of export markets.