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

Introduction & Importance

Coffee once dominated Sri Lanka’s plantation economy in the 19th century before being devastated by leaf rust. Today, it is re-emerging as a specialty crop with high export potential.

Uses

  • Beverage industry worldwide.
  • Coffee grounds used in cosmetics, scrubs, and fertilizers.

Growing Areas

Kandy, Matale, Badulla, and Nuwara Eliya districts.


Climate & Soil Requirements

  • Altitude: 600–1,200 m.
  • Temperature: 15–28°C.
  • Soil: Fertile, well-drained loams.


Varieties

Arabica dominates, with robusta grown at lower altitudes.


Harvesting & Post-Harvest

  • Cherries harvested when red.
  • Processed using wet or dry methods.
  • Specialty coffees fetch premium prices.

DEA Support

Promotes coffee through planting materials and technical assistance.