• Department of Export Agriculture
    Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation

Introduction & Importance

Cocoa, the source of chocolate, is cultivated in Sri Lanka as a mixed crop with coconut, pepper, and clove.

Uses

  • Main raw material for chocolate production.
  • Cocoa butter used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Growing Areas

Central, Sabaragamuwa, and Uva provinces.


Climate & Soil Requirements

  • Altitude: Below 800 m.
  • Temperature: 18–30°C.
  • Soil: Moist, well-drained soils with high organic matter.


Varieties

Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario types.


Harvesting & Post-Harvest

  • Pods harvested when yellow/orange.
  • Seeds fermented and sun-dried before export.

DEA Support

Encourages intercropping, research on fermentation, and improved planting stock.