Abstract:
This paper is aimed at investigating the sustainability of organic vegetable supply
chains in Sri Lanka highlighting the challenges faced and feasible measures to
enhance the sustainability. Therefore, the study addressed two research questions:
what are the main challenges hindering the sustainability of the Sri Lanka supply
chains for organic vegetables? Which strategies can be recommended to enhance the
sustainability of the organic vegetable supply chains in Sri Lanka? The study aims
for a specific population of organic producers and entrepreneurs from the Colombo
area of the Western province of Sri Lanka where organic vegetable production is
predominant in the country. The study provides a comprehensive examination of the
primary stakeholders involved in the supply chain of organic vegetables. Data
collection was based on a focus group discussion and interviews with organic
farmers, organic business owners, and other supply chain stakeholders. The thematic
analysis approach was utilized to identify, examine, and interpret recurring patterns
in the qualitative data. Some of the thematic areas that have emerged include an
understanding of organic practices, seed sourcing, hurdles posed by certification and
regulation, shifting market and demand, production and technology constraints,
consumer behaviour and trends, operations and logistical issues, legal support gaps
and hurdles, and economic and financial factors. These identified challenges hinder
the sustainability of the organic vegetable supply chains in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the
paper concludes with strategic recommendations for the way forward.
