Sri Lanka & China Partner to Boost Agri-Productivity 📈

A high-level discussion was held at the Presidential Secretariat to implement the MoU on Enhancing China–Sri Lanka Agricultural Productivity, focusing on modernizing the sector and addressing environmental hurdles. • Strategic Collaboration The partnership leverages Chinese technology and tools to resolve systemic issues in agriculture and enhance overall productivity. Key focus areas include scientific knowledge exchange and the deployment of advanced farming equipment. • Sectoral Interventions Crop Protection: Joint efforts to minimize significant crop damage caused by wild animals, a persistent challenge for rural farmers. Dairy & Exports: Related discussions highlight Chinese interest in large-scale dairy farms and export-oriented fruit & vegetable cultivation (specifically banana, mango, and pineapple) using underutilized state lands. • Environmental Restoration China will provide technical assistance for the cleaning and restoration of the Beira Lake in Colombo. This aligns with a broader Rs. 2.5 billion urban rehabilitation project aimed at improving water quality and unlocking real estate value. • Economic Context The initiative comes as Sri Lanka seeks to stabilize its agrifood sector following climate shocks like Cyclone Ditwah. Focus remains on diversification and value-added exports to strengthen foreign exchange reserves.