Over two hundred spice smallholders and agricultural youth from Kamburupitiya, Akuressa, and Thihagoda gathered for an intensive export certification seminar organized by the Matara District Cinnamon Producers Cooperative.

Supported by the Department of Export Agriculture, the program trained peelers in hygienic quilling techniques, moisture stabilization, and organic Geographical Indication (GI) standards demanded by high-value European gourmet markets. Cooperative leaders stated that equipping Matara growers with certified processing skills enables them to secure direct export contracts and bypass intermediary brokerage margins.