Plans to Ban Sale of Unpackaged Coconut Oil in Sri Lanka

Chairman of the Authority, Shantha Ranawaka, revealed that a gazette notification will soon be issued to formalize the ban. The primary objective is to prevent the sale of adulterated coconut oil, which has raised growing concerns among health experts and consumers alike.

The decision comes amid increasing scrutiny over the importation and distribution of unrefined coconut oil, which is taxed heavily once locally refined. This has resulted in only two of the country’s nine licensed coconut oil refineries remaining operational, underscoring the financial strain on the industry.

To facilitate a smooth transition, coconut oil producers will be granted an eight-month grace period to comply with the new regulations. During this time, stakeholders are expected to shift towards standardized, packaged distribution methods.

The Cabinet of Ministers is expected to issue the necessary documentation soon, officially enacting the policy and providing further guidance to producers and distributors.

This measure is seen as a significant step towards improving food safety standards and rebuilding consumer trust in Sri Lanka’s coconut oil market.