In Sri Lanka, cinnamon is more than a spice,  it is a symbol of heritage, sustainability, and opportunity. Today, the country’s Fairtrade producer network is entering an exciting phase of transformation, marked by both promising opportunities and emerging challenges. Among its most promising ventures lies the high potential for diversification into cinnamon value chains, offering smallholder producers a pathway to expand income streams, build climate resilience, and enhance market competitiveness.

This opportunity is being strongly supported by the Department of Cinnamon, whose technical expertise has proven invaluable in guiding farmers toward sustainable cinnamon production and processing practices. The success of such initiatives also reflects the active participation and commitment of Sri Lanka’s small-scale farmers’ organisations’ (SPO) representatives, who continue to embrace learning and collaboration under the Fairtrade framework.

At the same time, challenges persist. Limited resources restrict the ability to scale up technical training for all SPO members, while there is a continued need for advisory support to maintain Fairtrade certification compliance and strengthen premium governance systems. Additionally, climate variability continues to affect cinnamon and other key crops, highlighting the urgent need for climate-smart agricultural practices and adaptive risk management strategies.

Fairtrade NAPP continues to lead focused capacity-building programs designed to empower producers, promote diversification, and enhance long-term sustainability.

The Second Workshop in the Sri Lanka SPO Capacity-Building Series

As part of this ongoing initiative, the second workshop in the Sri Lanka Smallholder Producer Organisation (SPO) Capacity-Building Series was successfully held from at Matara, Sri Lanka bringing together 18 participants from herbs, herbal tea and spices producer organisations:  SAFENET, Aluwana Hithakara Organic Tea Producers Society, Pasadul Organic Farmers’ Welfare Association, Lanka Faircocos Farmers’ Association, and Gampaha Kabanika Govinge Sangamaya. Organized under NAPP Strategic Pillar to empower Farmers and Workers, the workshop aimed to drive climate resilience, improve livelihoods, and strengthen Fairtrade certification systems.

Day 1: Strengthening Fairtrade Standards and Organizational Governance

The first day focused on deepening participants’ understanding of Fairtrade principles, standards, and certification maintenance. Trainers guided participants through the Fairtrade minimum price and premium structure, the requirements of trade standards including traceability and contracts, and the correct use of the Fairtrade mark. Sessions also emphasized effective organizational governance—clarifying the roles and responsibilities of SPO boards, the importance of well-defined constitutions, and the role of premium committees in ensuring accountability and transparency.

The day concluded with discussions on organizational management systems, including the creation of internal control systems (ICS) and strengthening the overall governance of Fairtrade premiums to ensure that funds are used for long-term community benefit.

Day 2: Promoting Climate Resilience, GAPs, and Risk Management

The second day was dedicated to advancing participants’ knowledge of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation. Facilitators introduced practical approaches to soil and water conservation, integrated pest and disease management, and sustainable nutrient management to improve farm productivity. The sessions also covered Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), focusing on the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), first aid procedures, and the establishment of Health and Safety Committees within SPOs. Participants explored Fairtrade’s Youth Inclusive Community-Based Monitoring and Remediation (YICBMR) system for child protection and risk prevention.

The day ended with a collaborative planning session where SPO representatives developed action plans outlining steps to strengthen certification compliance, improve premium utilization, and integrate climate-smart agricultural techniques within their communities.

Day 3: Technical Field Visit – Department of Cinnamon Research

On the final day, participants visited the Department of Cinnamon Research, where they received hands-on training in cinnamon production and post-harvest management. Experts demonstrated advanced techniques in soil nutrition, pest and disease management, and sustainable harvesting practices. Participants also observed processing and value addition methods conducted under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure product quality and market competitiveness. This practical exposure allowed producers to connect theory with real-world application, highlighting the potential of cinnamon diversification as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods and export market opportunities.

Workshop Outcomes and Impact

Participants reported a significant increase in their understanding of Fairtrade standards and audit preparedness, along with improved confidence in managing Fairtrade Premiums transparently and effectively. The technical visit equipped producers with valuable skills in cinnamon cultivation, value addition, and quality control, paving the way for future business expansion and improved income generation.

The workshop also facilitated strong peer-to-peer networking, encouraging participants to exchange experiences and best practices. Many SPOs have already committed to implementing follow-up actions focused on governance improvement, climate adaptation, and product diversification. The long-term impact is expected to include increased adoption of GAPs, sustained Fairtrade certification, and stronger collaboration between Fairtrade organizations nationwide.

Looking Ahead

The outcomes of this workshop reaffirm Fairtrade NAPP’s mission to empower farmers and workers through knowledge, collaboration, and sustainable practices. Building on the success of the Matara workshop, upcoming sessions in Kandy and Negombo will continue to enhance producer capacity in certification, diversification, and governance.