On 16 October 2018, with the support of SEFEC, the Polgahawela Trust launched an innovative, first of its kind, an online platform that facilitates Pepper Value Chain actors and stakeholders connecting and networking with one another.
Exporters, processors and collectors, present at the launch, all pledged to network and cooperate with farmer groups and producer associations once TC/PSs inform them the progress of the farmer organization activities. The resulting consensus was that all stakeholders would ensure the development of a sustainable pepper value chain in the Wayamba province.
Representatives from the Department of Export Agriculture and Export Development Board at the Assistant Director level attended the launch. In attendance also were Sanasa partners such as Sanasa International, SDB, Polgahawela Trust, the Wayamba Region Union, and selected Primary Societies along with several exporters, collectors, processors and input suppliers.
At the event exporters had the opportunity to stress to all in attendance including pepper farmers the importance of maintaining the quality of pepper. In order to obtain organic certification, the product must be dry and free of impunities such as chemicals and mineral oils. Producers assured exporters that they provide a high quality, superior product and will continue to do so however they felt that the price they get should be higher to accommodate ensuring the above quality standards.
Stakeholders also stressed the need to minimize light berry harvesting and as well as the need for farmers to diversify pepper land with other cash crops in order to increase profit margins.
SANASA anticipates better market opportunities in the export market.
