Sri Lanka launches digital seed certification and traceability system

Colombo, May 13 (Daily Mirror) - The Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation Ministry and the Agriculture Department, with technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, have launched the CROPIX Seed Production, Certification and Traceability System aimed at modernising Sri Lanka’s seed sector through digital technology.

The new platform is designed to improve transparency, efficiency, traceability and coordination across the seed value chain, while strengthening access to quality-certified seeds for farmers.

The system forms part of the broader CROPIX digital agriculture platform and supports the country’s efforts to build a more resilient and farmer-centric agricultural sector.

According to officials, the seed sector in Sri Lanka has faced several challenges, including delays in certification processes, fragmented information systems, limited traceability and difficulties in accessing quality seeds.

The newly introduced digital platform seeks to address these issues through an integrated system linking seed growers, seed handlers, laboratories, field officers and administrators. It enables real-time monitoring of seed production and certification activities while improving access to reliable seed-related information.

The system includes a national seed database with real-time data, web-based management tools, APIs, digital field registration and certification processes, laboratory testing integration, inventory management and traceability functions covering the entire seed production cycle.

Authorities said the platform would also improve coordination between the Seed Certification Service and the Seed and Planting Material Development Centre, while aligning with Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy Blueprint.

Farmers are expected to benefit from easier access to quality seeds and real-time agricultural information, while government agencies and private sector stakeholders will be able to make more informed data-driven decisions.

Speaking at the launch, Agriculture Minister K. D. Lalkantha said the project marked a significant step forward despite challenges faced during its implementation.

He said that recent adverse weather conditions, including the Ditva cyclone, highlighted the importance of accurate agricultural data systems for seed and paddy management.

Lalkantha thanked the FAO and all institutions involved in implementing the project and pledged continued government support for the initiative.