Global demand for Ceylon Cinnamon on the rise

ASSOCIATION for Ceylon Cinnamon Protected Geographical Indication (ACCPGI) Secretary Christopher Fernando said the global market for Ceylon Cinnamon is experiencing a period of robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for natural health-enhancing ingredients and premium quality spices.

- BY CHARUMINI DE SILVA

"Amid shifting global preferences, Ceylon Cinnamon continues to distinguish itself, carving out a significant niche in both traditional and emerging industries. The Geographical Identification (GI) status to protect the authenticity of Pure Ceylon Cinnamon is now getting in the international markets," he told the Daily FT.

He said the cinnamon exports in the first six months of 2024 increased from $ 76.24 million to $ 95.3 million, up by 25% year-on-year (YoY).

Fernando disclosed that the rise of e-commerce had also expanded the global reach of Ceylon Cinnamon, enabling niche producers and exporters to tap into diverse consumer bases. "Online platforms are making it easier for small-scale suppliers to showcase their products, especially in retail forms like oils, powdered spice packs, and functional food ingredients," he said.

According to him, Sri Lanka remains at the heart of this booming market, accounting for an estimated 80-90% of the world's production and exports of true cinnamon. “As a key agricultural export and a major foreign exchange earner, cinnamon holds strategic importance in the country's economy, with key export markets including Europe, North America, Middle East, East Asia and Pacific, Latin America, Africa, and South Asia as major markets,” he added.