The Sri Lankan government has introduced new measures to encourage the use of locally produced brown sugar in an effort to strengthen and sustain the domestic sugar industry, the Government Information Department announced on Tuesday, reports Daily Mirror.
According to the department, the Cabinet has approved a proposal making it mandatory for all state institutions to use brown sugar in food preparation. The move is expected to boost demand for the product and support the livelihoods of factory workers, sugarcane farmers, and others involved in the local sugar supply chain.
The Pelawatta and Sevanagala sugar factories, operated by Lanka Sugar Company (Private) Limited, produce around 56,000 metric tonnes of brown sugar each year. However, this year’s improved sugarcane harvest has resulted in higher production than usual.
Officials said the decision will not only expand the local market for brown sugar but also promote the long-term stability of the country’s sugar industry.
Under the new directive, institutions including the Tri-Forces, Sri Lanka Police, Department of Prisons, and government hospitals will be required to use only brown sugar in their food production.
In addition, Lanka Sathosa Limited has been authorised to purchase brown sugar directly from Lanka Sugar Company (Private) Limited and distribute it to consumers.
The proposal was presented to the Cabinet by the Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development and received formal approval earlier this week.
