By Ifham Nizam
The 22nd edition of Profood Propack & Agbiz 2025 was launched in grand style at the Cinnamon Grand recently, highlighting the Sri Lankan food processing industry’s immense potential to contribute to national economic growth.
The event, attended by key industry stakeholders, government officials and innovators, reinforced the sector’s vital role in driving exports, supporting local farmers and integrating advanced technology into food production.
Speaking at the event, Industries Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe commended the efforts of the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, its chairman Tushita Wijesinghe, and its committee members for their dedication to innovation and excellence.
The minister emphasized how the food processing industry does not operate in isolation but instead fuels a network of associated sectors, including packaging, research and development, machinery, and sustainable agriculture.
He noted that despite fiscal challenges, the government is committed to supporting the industry due to its extensive value chain, which impacts a significant portion of the population.
“Sri Lankan food processing is not just about exports—it’s about sustaining our farmers, modernizing supply chains, and ensuring fair trade, Abeysinghe said. With 27% of Sri Lanka’s population relying on agriculture, the food industry plays a pivotal role in rural development and economic stability.
Moreover, the global food market presents lucrative opportunities, particularly in organic and innovative food segments, where Sri Lanka’s unique value proposition stands out. With increasing demand for sustainability, traceability, and high-quality food, Sri Lanka’s food processors have a competitive advantage in catering to international markets.
A key focus of the event was the role of innovation in transforming the food industry. Chairman of the Awards Committee, Damitha Perera, highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent, particularly from universities and research institutions. “For the past 4-5 years, we’ve been promoting innovation at the university level because we’ve seen promising products emerge, he said.
To bridge the gap between academia and industry, commercial viability and market alignment have become focal points. The institutional category awards, recognizing the most innovative product, process, and green innovation, were designed to encourage young researchers to create market-ready solutions. However, Perera noted a challenge—students often remained too focused on their own innovations without exploring the broader exhibition. He urged university staff to ensure students actively engage with industry experts and corporate exhibitors to expand their knowledge.
“It’s not just about developing a product—it’s about understanding the market, learning from industry leaders, and commercializing innovations effectively, he stated.
One of the major themes discussed at the event was strengthening supply chains. With increasing demand for organic, processed, and functional foods, Sri Lanka’s food industry has the potential to position itself as a global player. The Ministry of Industries is working closely with the Ministries of Agriculture and Plantation to streamline supply chains, promote sustainable practices, and enhance technological capabilities.
