One of the most expensive goods made in Sri Lanka is Ceylon black pepper, sometimes called Sri Lankan pepper. The nation has a long history of producing high-quality black pepper, and it now occupies a significant position in the world’s spice market.
Sri Lanka’s black pepper industry has a substantial economic impact. The second-largest spice export from Sri Lanka, making up 16% of all spice exports, is black pepper, according to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board. Sri Lanka exported more than 11,000 metric tons of black pepper in 2020 for a total of approximately USD 60 million.
Numerous Sri Lankans can find work in the cultivation and production of Ceylon black pepper. The center, southern, and western areas of the nation are among those where the spice is farmed. A large amount of the production is carried out by smallholder farmers, and the crop is a major source of income for many rural areas.
Ceylon black pepper has economic effects on Sri Lanka, but it also plays a significant role in the world market for spices. Black pepper is the spice that is traded the most, with a value of over USD 10 billion yearly, according to the International Trade Center. Along with nations like Brazil, India, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka, the world’s top producers of black pepper are all in this region.
In foreign markets, there is an increasing demand for premium Ceylon black pepper. This is partly attributable to Sri Lankan pepper’s distinctive flavor, which is characterized by a strong, pungent flavor with a touch of sweetness. The spice is also well-known for having a high concentration of essential oils, which give it a unique scent.
In conclusion, Ceylon black pepper is an important export for Sri Lanka since it creates jobs and has a substantial economic impact on the nation. The demand for premium black pepper, notably Ceylon black pepper, is rising globally, making it a significant player in the trade of spices.