Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) has experienced increased global demand due to trends towards natural and clean label products, particularly in North America, Asia, and Europe. However, Sri Lanka currently exports approximately 90% of cinnamon as raw quills with minimal value addition (only 10% of exports), limiting potential economic returns. To become more competitive within the global spice market, Sri Lanka needs to add value into raw spice and explore value added products. This study aimed to evaluate the potential for value-added Ceylon cinnamon products from Matara district while addressing labor shortages through women's empowerment in the value chain.

A comprehensive survey of 75 cinnamon farmers across four villages in Matara district (Kamburupitiya, Thihagoda, Hakmana, and Matara region) was conducted using structured questionnaires, and the study examined production capabilities, women's participation, value addition potential, and market constraints. Results revealed that most farmers (53.3%) were middle-aged with substantial experience, operating medium-scale farms and producing moderate quantities annually. Women demonstrated significant participation in post-harvest activities such as peeling, processing, and management, though their involvement was limited in physically demanding tasks. Less than half of the farmers 37.3% were currently engaged in value addition, primarily due to high initial investment costs, labor shortages and transportation challenges. Critical barriers to value addition were lack of modern equipment and limited market information, along with higher certification costs, unawareness of the international quality, food, hygiene and export standards and inadequate processing facilities. Despite these constraints, the majority of 80% farmers expressed strong interest in receiving training, with most identifying higher income potential as primary motivation for value addition. Women in the farmer families faced multiple barriers to engage in cinnamon production and processing, including household responsibilities, cultural constraints, and limited access to resources, reflected in low female employment rates in the district.

The study identified significant potential for value-added products such as cinnamon powder, food products, and essential oils, with strong international market demand observed in Sweden. However, success requires addressing infrastructure gaps, providing technical training, ensuring financial support, and creating supportive policies for women's empowerment. Strategic interventions focusing on small-scale, home-based value addition enterprises could enhance competitiveness while addressing labor shortages through increased women's participation in the Ceylon cinnamon value chain.