📦 EDB Prepares Ceylon Cinnamon Exporters for EU Packaging Standards

The National Packaging Centre (NPC) and Export Agriculture Division (EAD) of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) conducted a workshop on "Cinnamon Packaging and Compliance with EU Regulations" on July 22, 2026, drawing nearly 100 participants, exporters, and GI Association members. • Key EU Regulations & Timelines: The workshop focused on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which took effect on February 11, 2025, and faces full enforcement from August 12, 2026. Non-compliance risks market bans, fines, and product recalls. • Critical Action Points for Exporters: Exporters in the spices & agricultural exports domain were urged to implement immediate compliance steps, including: - Eliminating PFAS and heavy metals from packaging - Preparing EU Declarations of Conformity - Ensuring operator identification - Registering under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes across EU member states • National & Economic Impact: For Sri Lanka's Ceylon Cinnamon industry—which holds Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in the EU—aligning with PPWR standards is crucial to protect brand authenticity, sustain market access, and enhance buyer trust. • Resource Panel & Sector Support: Experts from Control Union Sri Lanka and packaging consultant W. Abhaya Seneviratne provided technical guidance on compliant materials, waste reduction, and product safety. Through this, the EDB aims to modernize Sri Lanka's packaging sector to strengthen global competitiveness.