Sri Lanka has launched a new state-of-the-art banana tissue culture laboratory in the North Central Province, with technical assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) under the South-South Cooperation (SSC) Programme with China.

Located at the In-Service Training Institute of the North Central Provincial Agriculture Department in Maha Illuppallama, the facility aims to supply high-quality, tissue-cultured banana planting materials to farmers in the North Central, Northern, and Northwestern Provinces. Previously, farmers in these regions depended on supplies from the southern part of the country, which were both costly and prone to damage during transport. This new laboratory will enhance the availability of disease-free and high-yielding banana planting materials, allowing producers to improve productivity, enhance quality, and increase profitability.

"By combining Sri Lanka's commitment to agricultural development with FAO's technical expertise and China's support through South-South Cooperation, we are ensuring that farmers have access to the quality planting materials they need to enhance productivity and incomes," said Vimlendra Sharan, FAO Representative for Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

FAO assisted in establishing the laboratory by funding the procurement of specialised equipment and chemicals, as well as facilitating technical training for staff to ensure smooth operations and high standards.

"By improving farmers' access to high-quality planting materials, we are empowering our agricultural communities, reducing costs, and paving the way for greater competitiveness in both local and international markets," stated Wasantha Jinadasa, Governor of the North Central Province.