The Sugar Industry in Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka The sugar industry in Sri Lanka has played a significant role in the country’s agricultural and economic sectors. Despite its potential, the industry faces several challenges that limit its full development. This article provides an overview of the sugar industry, its history, current status, challenges, and prospects. Sugarcane cultivation in Sri Lanka dates back to ancient times, with small-scale production for local consumption. The modern sugar industry began during the colonial period, particularly in the 19th century, when sugarcane was introduced as a plantation crop. The British colonial administration saw potential in sugarcane due to the growing demand for sugar in global markets. Today, the sugar industry in Sri Lanka operates on a relatively small scale. The country has a few major sugar factories, including: Pelwatte Sugar Industries Ltd Sevanagala Sugar Industries Ltd Kantalai Sugar Factory (currently under rehabilitation) Sugarcane cultivation is primarily ...
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Sugarcane cultivation in Sri Lanka – By Jayadeva De Silva Source : Jayadeva De Silva Linkedin Sugarcane cultivation in Sri Lanka, primarily for sugar production, faces several challenges and opportunities. Challenges: 1. Low Productivity: Compared to global standards, Sri Lanka’s sugarcane yields are low due to inefficient farming techniques and poor soil management. 2. Climatic Vulnerability: Droughts and erratic rainfall patterns, exacerbated by climate change, affect crop reliability. 3. Competition: The local industry struggles against cheaper imports, limiting profitability for domestic producers. Opportunities: 1. Government Support: Recent initiatives aim to expand local production to reduce reliance on imports. 2. Potential for Biofuel: Sugarcane offers opportunities for producing ethanol, a sustainable energy source. Improving irrigation, adopting modern technologies, and integrating sugarcane into biofuel production could revitalize the sector. However, overcoming inefficiencies and competition will require significant investment and reform. Click here to receive your free copy of the eLanka Newsletter twice ...
All About Sugarcane: Cultivation, Processing, and Benefits – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sugarcane, scientifically known as Saccharum officinarum, is a tall perennial grass native to the warm temperate to tropical regions of South Asia and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the grass family Poaceae and is primarily cultivated for its juice, from which sugar is processed. The history, cultivation, production, and economic importance of sugarcane form a vast and intricate subject that impacts numerous aspects of human society and natural ecosystems. Historical Context and Global Spread Sugarcane’s journey from its origins to becoming a global agricultural commodity is a testament to its versatility and the evolving human quest for sweeteners. The earliest records of sugarcane cultivation date back to around 8000 BCE in New Guinea, where indigenous people began selecting and cultivating the grass for its sweet juice. From New Guinea, sugarcane cultivation spread to Southeast Asia and India. By ...
The Sweet Prospects of the Sugar Industry in Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka Sri Lanka, renowned for its natural beauty and diverse agriculture, holds promising potential in the sugar industry. With its conducive climate and fertile lands, the country has gradually been enhancing its position within the global sugar market. In this article, we’ll explore the current state of the sugar industry in Sri Lanka, its challenges, and the opportunities that lie ahead. Sri Lanka’s sugar industry is primarily based on the cultivation of sugarcane and the production of various sugar-based products. While the industry has faced its share of challenges, including fluctuations in sugar prices, rising production costs, and weather-related adversities, the government and local stakeholders have been striving to revitalize and modernize the sector. ...
