– Watawala Plantations PLC (CSE: WATA), Sri Lanka’s leading diversified
agribusiness company, marked a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural landscape
with the opening of its state-of-the-art cinnamon processing centre in Udugama, Galle.
Completed with an investment of LKR 90 million, this facility is one of the largest cinnamon
processing centre’s in Sri Lanka, which operates under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
standards. The facility was opened by Watawala Plantations PLC Director, Vish Govindasamy.
Spanned across over 100 hectares of cinnamon-cultivated land, the cinnamon processing
centre will have a processing capacity of 900,000 cinnamon trees with an annual output of
100,000 kilos of processed cinnamon in two harvesting seasons. The centre is also equipped
for cinnamon leaf oil processing, adding significant value to this remarkable crop. Furthermore,
it will generate more than 200 direct and indirect job opportunities, contributing to the
community’s socioeconomic development by providing jobs and stimulating economic growth in
the Udugama area.
“The inauguration of our state-of-the-art cinnamon processing centre in Udugama marks a
proud moment for Watawala Plantations PLC. This facility represents our unwavering
commitment to agriculture excellence and underscores our dedication to empowering local
communities through job creation and stimulating economic growth in the region. We believe
that this centre will not only produce export-quality cinnamon but also cultivate opportunities and
growth, further enhancing Sri Lanka’s position on the global stage as a premier cinnamon
producer,” commented Prasanna Premachandra, Deputy General Manager – Operations at
Watawala Plantations PLC.
The facility boasts a massive footprint and conforms to rigorous local and international
standards, ensuring the highest quality of cinnamon products. Moreover, the centre’s
scientifically designed floor plan and structure provide maximum efficiency and product quality.
In addition to processing its crop, Watawala Plantations PLC will actively buy cinnamon from
third-party farmers, empowering them with a reliable platform to sell their harvest.
Sri Lanka’s cinnamon industry has long been renowned for producing some of the world’s finest
and most sought-after varieties. The country’s favourable climate and unique soil conditions
provide the ideal environment for cultivating this aromatic spice, known for its sweet and warm
flavour. Sri Lanka’s cinnamon, often called “Ceylon Cinnamon,” has gained global recognition
for its superior quality and distinct taste.
With the inauguration of state-of-the-art processing centres like this, Sri Lanka is well-positioned
to capitalize on the increasing demand for high-quality cinnamon in international markets. This
growing demand presents significant export opportunities, as Sri Lanka can leverage its
reputation for producing premium cinnamon to access global markets and meet the increasing
consumer preference for natural and flavorful spices. By maintaining stringent quality standards
and innovative processing techniques, Sri Lanka’s cinnamon industry is set to further elevate its
status as a top cinnamon exporter and contribute to its economic growth.
Vish Govindasamy opening the new Cinnamon Processing Centre in Udugama