Following the pesticide ban, Sri Lanka's corn imports hit a record high

Sri Lanka has spent Rs 9.6 billion on maize imports this year, according to government data. The shortage of cereal crops in the animal feed industry is looming because of the government's ban on pesticides.

According to the data, Sri Lanka has so far spent Rs 573.4 crore on importing maize seeds and Rs 9 crore on importing other corn-related products, including ears of maize.

Analysts say corn crops are vulnerable to pests and diseases and need pesticides to thrive.

Higher corn prices, coupled with a sharp rise in animal feed prices due to the pesticide ban, have further contributed to the surge in imports this year.

Sri Lanka spent the highest amount of Rs 7.5 billion on corn imports in 2017 before 2022, according to Sri Lanka Customs data.

The Sri Lankan government is now planning to increase the country's maize production. Corn, one of the main components of animal feed, is being imported in large quantities to boost poultry production after the fertiliser crisis hit the cost of living and inflation in the country. Government officials say a shortage of Sri Lanka's corn crop has led to higher prices for chicken, fresh milk and eggs in the local market.