Avocadoes in Sri Lanka: A case of untapped potential

by Garvin Karunaratne

In my extensive travels, throughout Sri Lanka, both as a former Administrative Officer, and as a tourist, I have passed through the avocado belt in Gampola-Peradeniya countless times. I have seen avocados on sale throughout the year but have been hesitant to buy them due to their tendency to perish, before ripening. In contrast, during my time living in London, I often paid a premium for a good-sized avocado and thoroughly enjoyed eating them.

It is a lost paradise, an underutilized resource that is readily available, currently in production, and easily harnessed not only for local consumption but also for export. However, the one person who could bring about change in this area, the Director of Agriculture, seems to be unaware of the potential of this crop. Perhaps the comforts of his plush office have blinded him to the agricultural resources that are lying undeveloped nearby.

It is disheartening to hear that if you visit the Department of Agriculture Nursery, in Peradeniya, the answer you often receive, when inquiring about purchasing a plant, is that it has been reserved for a bigwig. Meanwhile, countries like California generate $4.6 billion in annual avocado exports, and Mexico makes $2.4 billion a year. This clearly highlights the untapped potential of this crop in Sri Lanka.

If we can develop better harvesting techniques, including training for pluckers to identify ripe fruit and harvest at the right time, we could at least ensure that we can enjoy the avocados we purchase. This is something that can be done relatively quickly. It is time for our leaders to step out of their plush offices and recognize the potential of this underutilized asset on their doorstep.

Unfortunately, the Department of Agriculture has been severely weakened, since 1992 when President Premadasa promoted all Agricultural Overseers to Grama Niladharis, resulting in a loss of valuable extension services. Furthermore, the Agrarian Service Institutes, established by Minister Kobbekaduwa, have officers who were never trained like the Agricultural Overseers, and their knowledge leaves much to be desired.

It is imperative that we treat avocados as a crop with untapped potential that can bring income to many households and contribute to exports. Immediate action should be taken, such as posting Agricultural Instructors to organize cultivators and educate them on harvesting techniques, developing packaging, and, if possible, reviving the Marketing Department with its purchasing units.

Garvin Karunaratne, Former GA Matara