___ORIGINS OF THE SRI LANKAN SPICES🇱🇰___

Origins of the Sri Lankan spice 

Sri Lanka, the 'Spice Island, has always been renowned for its spices. The industry plays a valuable role not only in boosting export earnings, but also in enhancing the rural economy. Since ancient times, Sri Lankan spices have been renowned around the old world for their superior taste and quality. The demand for spices globally is increasingly driven by the health-conscious lifestyles and ethical practices, particularly among a mobile youth population. Spices demand is also created by its increased utilization as natural preservatives in a variety of processed food products and the strengthening of economies in the Asia Pacific region leading to increased disposable incomes. Organic spices are another strongly expanding segment. Lately, especially in the European, Middle Eastern and Asia Pacific markets, there is a growing consumer preference for certified organic and Fair-Trade spices. 

In more recent history, the Arab, Portuguese, Dutch and English engagements in Sri Lanka were closely related to the abundant and high-quality availability of exotic spices, such as cinnamon and pepper. Many spices in Sri Lanka have superior properties due to the country's fertile and diverse soil types, varying micro climates and favorable temperature variations. At present, Sri Lanka is the ninth most important exporter of spices (specifically cinnamon, pepper, cloves, cardamom and nutmeg) in the world.