Avocados crossing borders: logistics and transportation issues in avocado supply chain in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study mainly attempts the logistics and transportation issues in avocado supply chain in Sri Lanka. Data collection was done in the main Avocado growing areas; Matale, Kandy, Badulla, Bandarawela and Gampaha Districts in Sri Lanka representing 30% avocado growers and 70% intermediaries. The Sri Lankan Avocado production is mainly relied on home gardening and distinguished by wide varieties in avocado cultivars. According to the result of the study the main logistics and transportation issues were identified as inappropriate harvesting practices, packing, postharvest management, temperature management, inappropriate transportation, and storage conditions. The study suggests reducing the logistics and transportation problems through introducing commercial cultivation and increasing technologies for harvesting, storing, packaging and transportation. Furthermore, the study suggests developing a commercial verity as "Hash" in order to gain entry into the international market. To reduce avocado post-harvest losses, it is suggested to invest into value addition products like avocado oil and researches. Most crucially, the study highlights the necessity for greater government attention on Avocado supply chain development.