Deputy Minister Hemachandra explores agri-tech cooperation during Qatar visit

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra visited Argrico during his official visit to the State of Qatar. The company is engaged in modern, technology-driven agriculture and food production under challenging desert conditions.

Deputy Minister Hemachandra observed the application of science and innovation to agricultural production in an environment characterised by extreme heat, limited freshwater resources and restricted arable land. The facility integrates vegetable cultivation, hydroponics, vertical farming, aquaculture, mushroom production and mangrove-related cultivation. The controlled agricultural systems demonstrate the potential for year-round production while contributing to greater food security and efficient utilisation of limited natural resources.

He also noted with interest that coco peat sourced from Sri Lanka is being used in the company’s modern cultivation systems, creating an existing link between Sri Lankan agricultural products and Qatar’s growing agri-technology sector.

Discussions during the visit focused on opportunities for cooperation in controlled-environment agriculture, climate-resilient farming, efficient water and land utilisation and sustainable food production. Particular attention was also given to cold-chain management, post-harvest technology, storage and logistics, with a view to reducing food losses, preserving product quality and strengthening resilient food supply chains.

Argrico has already invested in Sri Lanka, and discussions explored opportunities to further expand its engagement through additional foreign direct investment, technology transfer, research collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Deputy Minister Hemachandra highlighted Sri Lanka’s natural advantages in agriculture and the potential to combine these strengths with modern science, climate-resilient technologies and efficient supply-chain systems to enhance productivity, strengthen food security and create greater opportunities for export-oriented agriculture.

The visit underscored the potential for stronger Sri Lanka–Qatar cooperation in agriculture and agri-technology, bringing together investment, innovation, sustainability, food security and economic development.