With global demand for authentic, high-quality spices continuing to grow, Sri Lanka’s food manufacturing sector is seeing the emergence of new businesses looking to build a presence in both domestic and international markets.
Vista Essential Foods (Pvt) Ltd is among the latest entrants, having introduced seven of its initial spice products to the Sri Lankan market at a launch held in Colombo last week. The company plans to establish its local presence before gradually expanding its operations and entering selected overseas markets.
Vista Essential Foods Managing Director Suhanya Perera Ockersz said the company has already received inquiries from potential markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Azerbaijan and Germany. She described the early interest as encouraging, while noting that meeting internationally recognised food safety and quality requirements will be essential to successfully entering global markets.
According to Ockersz, certifications such as Brand Reputation through Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Food Safety System Certification 22000 (FSSC 22000) can play an important role in establishing credibility with international buyers, particularly in European markets.
BRCGS comprises globally recognised food safety standards that are widely preferred by major supermarkets and food processors, while HACCP provides a systematic approach to identifying and controlling food safety risks. FSSC 22000 is another internationally recognised food safety management certification with broad acceptance among major global markets.
Beyond meeting regulatory and buyer requirements, obtaining such certifications can demonstrate a company’s commitment to maintaining consistent food safety and quality standards. They also provide customers and business partners with greater assurance that production processes are subject to systematic risk assessment, auditing and control.
Vista Essential Foods is currently working towards obtaining relevant certifications, with the company’s new factory being constructed in accordance with the requirements associated with these international standards. Ockersz said the certification process is stringent and could take approximately six to eight months.
Sri Lanka already has an established reputation as a producer of a wide range of spices. Data from the Export Development Board indicates that the country exports approximately 30,000 tonnes of different spices each year. More than 90 percent of spice and related products manufactured in Sri Lanka are used internationally across industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals and personal care.
The country’s spice sector is also expected to experience continued expansion, although growth rates are projected to vary between 2025 and 2029. Industry projections indicate growth of 8.89 percent in 2025, increasing to 9.83 percent in 2026 before moderating slightly to 9.81 percent by 2029.
Vista Essential Foods has entered the market with an initial portfolio comprising Chilli Powder, Chilli Pieces, Curry Powder, Roasted Curry Powder, Roasted Chilli Powder, Turmeric Powder and Pepper Powder.
The company says product purity and food safety will form the foundation of its market strategy. Chairman Quintus Perera expressed concerns about the quality of some products available in the local spice market, particularly in relation to adulteration and marketing claims surrounding product quality.
He said Vista Essential Foods intends to supply pure raw spices without artificial colouring, flavours or preservatives, while maintaining consistent quality standards across its local and future international operations.
Perera added that although Vista is a new brand in the retail market, the business is supported by an established network and a long-standing connection to Sri Lanka’s food industry through its affiliation with the House of Uswatte, which has a history spanning more than seven decades.
The company believes this background will provide a foundation from which it can compete with established players in the local spice industry. Vista Essential Foods initially aims to secure between five and 10 percent of Sri Lanka’s estimated Rs. 2 billion spice market.
The company’s ambitions extend beyond spices. In the longer term, Vista Essential Foods plans to broaden its product portfolio to include everyday food products such as jams, cordials and sauces.
With its initial focus on building a strong domestic presence, securing international food safety certifications and developing export opportunities, Vista Essential Foods aims to position itself as a Sri Lankan food brand capable of serving both local consumers and overseas markets.
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