Transforming Tobacco Farming in Sri Lanka: A Value Chain Analysis
This research explored the possibilities of transforming tobacco farming in Sri Lanka using both secondary information through a desk review and primary data from a sample survey. The study finds several crucial features of tobacco farming that should help policymakers better evaluate any potential of transforming into alternative cropping strategies.
The present research finds that tobacco farming is not a particularly lucrative enterprise for most smallholder tobacco farmers in Sri Lanka. In fact, farmers can earn higher profits by cultivating several other crops. Many farmers continue tobacco cultivation because of easy crop management, drought tolerance, contract benefits and an assured market. Besides, the finding of declining youth involvement questions the industry’s claim about the lucrativeness of tobacco farming. Based on the study’s findings, recommendations are made following a four-element framework: identifying alternatives, enhancing productivity, facilitating commercialisation, and strengthening policy.
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