How to export plant products from Sri Lanka

The wave of wellness has been steadily sweeping across the globe, with more consumers opting for a more holistic approach to life. Several factors fuel this trend: an informed global populace seeking eco-friendly alternatives, a growing scepticism of synthetic ingredients, and a renewed trust in ancient and traditional remedies.

Amidst this global momentum, countries endowed with a rich tapestry of flora and fauna have a unique advantage. Sri Lanka, often described as a tropical paradise, is one such nation. With its diverse ecosystems, ranging from rainforests to dry zones, the island is home to a plethora of endemic plants and rare botanical wonders. As the global marketplace buzzes with excitement for nature-derived products, Sri Lanka's vast botanical repertoire stands as a treasure trove, poised and ready to be unveiled to the world.

For entrepreneurs and businesses in Sri Lanka, this global demand presents an unparalleled opportunity. However, to successfully tap into international markets, understanding the nuances of exporting these plant products is paramount. This guide offers insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of exporting plant products from Sri Lanka to the international arena.

What are plant-based products?

Plant-based products aren't just limited to the food and beverage industry; they span across sectors like beauty, health, and home decor. They encompass any product derived from plants – including but not limited to seeds, foliage, ornamental plants, and flowers. These natural treasures provide the foundation for products ranging from essential oils and health supplements to decorative items for homes.

Sri Lanka’s unique plant-based offerings

Drenched in tropical sunlight and blessed with fertile soils, Sri Lanka stands out as a biogeographical gem, providing a hospitable environment for a plethora of endemic plant species. The island's geographical placement, combined with its varying altitudes and diverse climatic zones, facilitates the cultivation of a remarkable variety of plants, many of which aren't found anywhere else in the world.

According to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, the global market has increasingly recognised the importance and appeal of naturally-sourced products. In particular, the demand for cut flowers, foliage, and ornamental plants has seen a significant uptick over the last decade. Developing countries have been instrumental in meeting this demand, reporting a cumulative market value of a whopping US$4 billion in 2012 alone.

Amidst this backdrop, while Sri Lanka continues to be celebrated for its world-renowned tea industry, it's progressively making its mark on the international stage with other plant-based products. Notably, madatiya seeds, scotch bonnet seeds, and the island's unique ornamental and foliage plants are capturing the attention of global consumers and stakeholders. This burgeoning interest not only underscores the quality and uniqueness of Sri Lankan agricultural offerings but also hints at the immense potential for further growth and exploration in this sector.

Ensuring quality and packaging best practices

In the arena of global trade, the quality of exported products plays a pivotal role in building and maintaining a brand's reputation. For plant-based products, where the vitality of the product is integral to its value, ensuring this quality becomes even more critical. When transporting these delicate items across the world, a range of external factors can jeopardise their integrity.

Here's a deeper dive into preserving the essence of Sri Lankan botanical treasures for the global market:

Storage conditions

• Temperature control: Store temperature-sensitive seeds like madatiya in a controlled environment to preserve their viability.
• Humidity regulation: Apart from temperature, regulate humidity to prevent mould growth, especially crucial for products like scotch bonnet seeds.
• Shading: Protect foliage plants from direct sunlight during storage, as excessive light can degrade the quality and vibrancy of the plant.

Packaging

• Breathability: For foliage plants, opt for materials that allow air circulation. This can prevent the accumulation of moisture, reducing the risk of fungal or bacterial infections.
• Moisture-proof containers for seeds: Seeds are prone to germination when exposed to moisture. Utilise hermetic or vacuum-sealed containers to keep the seeds dry and maintain their germination potential.
• Cushioning: For delicate items, like flowers or fragile foliage, cushioning materials can prevent mechanical damage during transportation.

Labelling

• Detail-oriented: Ensure labels are comprehensive, detailing the product name, botanical name, and country of origin.
• Shelf life: Clearly indicate the product's expected shelf life. This not only informs the consumer but also helps retailers manage their inventory efficiently.
• Storage instructions: Given the unique needs of different plant products, offering clear storage instructions can assist the end user in maintaining the product's quality.
• Regulatory compliance: Different countries may have specific labelling requirements, especially for agricultural products. Familiarise yourself with these to avoid customs delays.

By taking these precautionary steps, exporters can ensure that their plant products retain the same freshness, vitality, and authenticity from the point of harvest to their destination on the global stage.

Navigating international export processes

The intricate web of international regulations governing the import of plant-based products requires careful navigation.

For instance, Australia has stringent quarantine laws to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases not currently in their country. A specific example is the ban on importing certain seeds without a permit due to concerns about them becoming invasive species.

On the other hand, for exporters looking to ship to the United States, the USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) may require detailed phytosanitary certificates for plant products to ascertain they are free from pests and diseases. Being well-informed and proactive in understanding these country-specific regulations ensures a smoother export process and helps build a trustworthy reputation in the international market.