A guide to spicing up trade: Exporting Sri Lankan peppers

For centuries, black pepper has been hailed as the king of spices, with Sri Lanka’s reputation as a top-quality producer of pepper being firmly established. Unlike many others, Sri Lankan peppers are particularly prized for its superior pungency and strong, aromatic flavors, a distinct character that gives it an edge in the global market. This premium quality is a direct result of the ideal conditions for cultivation in regions like Matale, Kandy, and Kurunegala¹.

In recent years, there has also been a steady global demand for high quality peppers. Modern consumers are increasingly seeking out spices that are organic, traceable, and ethically sourced for their gourmet kitchens and health regimens. By embracing these trends, Sri Lankan exporters can strategically position their products as a premium choice for high-value health and food markets worldwide.

Where are Sri Lankan peppers exported to?

The pepper export business in Sri Lanka has become a significant force on the world stage, with the country ranking as the ninth-largest exporter of pepper globally in 2023, with total exports valued at US$93.6 million². While the Sri Lankan spice trade reaches a wide range of global destinations, there are several key markets that stand out, with the top export destinations being:

• India: US$82.1M (by far the largest destination)
• Germany: US$3.83M
• United States: US$1.39M
• Czechia: US$601K
• Japan: US$593K

Fastest-growing markets (2022–2023)

While overall export volume is important, understanding growth trends can uncover the most promising new opportunities. For Sri Lankan exporters, the rising demand in key global markets signals a chance to expand their reach beyond traditional trade relationships. The fastest-growing markets for pepper exports in Sri Lanka between 2022 and 2023 were:

• India: +US$6.25M
• Czechia: +US$447K
• United States: +US$388K³

How to export pepper from Sri Lanka

Beyond a quality product, exporting pepper from Sri Lanka demands a clear understanding of the global trade standards for spices and a streamlined process. Here’s how to get started with your pepper export business: 

Product grading and quality control

• Sort by size, color, and moisture content: Achieving export-quality black pepper begins with meticulous sorting to meet international standards. This involves carefully grading peppercorns by physical characteristics like size, color, and moisture content to ensure a consistent, premium product.
• Importance of quality certification: While not always mandatory, quality certifications like ISO 22000 and Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) are crucial for establishing trust with international buyers. These certifications provide third-party assurances that your products meet stringent food safety standards, which is vital for securing high-value contracts.

Labelling and packaging requirements

• Airtight, moisture-resistant packaging: Spices are highly susceptible to moisture, which can lead to spoilage and a loss of their valuable aroma. To protect your black pepper during transit, use multi-layered bags or PET containers that are both airtight and moisture-resistant to preserve their quality.
• Clear labelling: International shipping and trade demands transparent and accurate labeling. Your packaging must be clearly marked with the product name, net weight, country of origin, and a batch number to ensure traceability and proper customs clearance.
• Include certifications where applicable: Including certifications like organic, fair-trade, or other quality-related stamps can significantly enhance your product’s value. These labels assure international buyers of your commitment to quality and ethical sourcing, helping your product stand out in a competitive market.

Documentation checklist for export

Navigating international regulations can be complex, but having the right documentation is how you can ensure a smooth process. To ensure your spices exports clear customs efficiently, here is a checklist of essential documents:

• Commercial invoice: A crucial document for customs clearances that details the transaction between the exporter and the importer.
• Packing list: This document provides a comprehensive overview of the contents of your shipment, including the net and gross weight, volume, and number of packages.
• Phytosanitary certificate: As a plant-based product, black pepper requires this certificate from Sri Lanka’s Department of Agriculture, which certifies that your shipment is free from pests and diseases.
• Certificate of origin: This document proves that your product was wholly grown and processed in Sri Lanka. It is often required to qualify for trade agreements and tariff concessions.
• Importer country requirements: Always check the specific regulations of your target market. For example, exporters shipping to the USA must not only submit a Prior Notice to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but must also ensure their facility has the necessary FDA certifications.

Overcoming common export challenges

While the global market offers significant opportunities, exporters must also be prepared to navigate common challenges. By addressing key issues proactively, you can ensure a smooth and successful export journey. Here are some of the most common challenges and how to overcome them:

Moisture damage or spoilage

Moisture is a significant threat to your black pepper shipment, as it can lead to mold and spoilage. To protect your products, it's vital to use proper liners and sealed bags with desiccants. Additionally, while proper packaging is essential for your exports, minimizing the time in transit is equally important. This is where a reliable logistics partner comes in. DHL Express's services significantly reduce transit time, lowering the risk of moisture damage and ensuring your export-quality black pepper arrives in perfect condition.

Customs delays or rejections

Customs procedures can be a major hurdle for exporters, with varying import rules for food products across different countries. Failure to comply with regulations, documentation errors, or misclassifications can lead to costly delays and even the rejection of your shipments. Given this, it's crucial to partner with an experienced logistics provider that offers expert customs support. DHL’s logistics services are best suited in this regard, providing accurate customs classifications and up-to-date information on destination-specific regulations, helping your black pepper exports clear borders smoothly.

Limited buyer access

For small-scale exporters, a major challenge is fulfilling low-volume or B2C (Business-to-Consumer) orders. Many international buyers, particularly individual consumers or niche gourmet shops, may not require large, bulk shipments, which makes traditional freight-based logistics methods impractical and expensive. This is where DHL Express’s expertise comes in, specializing in fast, door-to-door delivery, enabling exporters to profitably serve these niche markets and reach a broader customer base without the need for large-scale logistics operations.

Tapping global demand with a trusted logistics partner

In today's global market, the appetite for premium, traceable spices is growing significantly. This presents a wide range of opportunities for black pepper exporters in Sri Lanka, from fulfilling large-scale orders for buyers in India to reaching niche gourmet importers in Europe or Japan.

To move confidently in this dynamic market, Sri Lankan exporters need a trusted partner, with DHL Express providing the speed, compliance, and visibility necessary to streamline cross-border shipments. By leveraging DHL’s services, businesses can ensure their products are handled with care and can reach international buyers efficiently and reliably.

So, ready to grow your pepper exporting business? Create a DHL Express business account today to streamline your cross-border shipments and unlock your full global potential!