CRTA warns of declining output as rubber sector confronts climate and trade challenges

► HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR THE FORMATION OF RUBBER INDUSTRY COUNCIL ► CLAIMS STATE SUPPORT FOR THE INDUSTRY INSUFFICIENT

- By ISHAN SHERIFFDEEN

Sri Lanka's rubber industry is at crossroads at present with changes taking place in trade, climate, and global consumer expectations, and these have contributed to the falling output, the Ceylon Rubber Traders' Association (CRTA) said.

The total rubber production has continued to experience a steep fall, with year 2024 recording less than 70,000 metric tonnes.

According to the CRTA newly elected Chairman Harin de Silva, thousands of hectares have been lost to real estate, unproductive lands and even total neglect. Replanting period also remains very long.

"State support to the industry is inadequate, and our base of 65,000 rubber small holders is struggling to survive. The country's rubber sector is now seen as an industry of the past, and not the future. Young and skilled people are leaving the estates," said de Silva, while noting that the highlighted are major challenges holding back the industry.

While speaking at the Post-Business Session of the Association's 106th Annual General Meeting in Colombo last Friday, he stressed that tackling such issues requires concerted action by farmers, researchers, policymakers and industry stakeholders.