Q1: Could you tell us a bit about yourself and how this Aloe vera project came to life?
Of course. My journey with Aloe vera began while I was working in the Middle East, where I identified a unique opportunity in the demand for organically grown Aloe vera and Aloe-based products. I returned to Sri Lanka with the vision of building a project that could meet this demand while benefiting local communities. Despite initial setbacks and limited support, I was committed to making this vision a reality. Over the past five years, with personal investment and determination, I’ve established a comprehensive processing facility that can deliver world-class Aloe vera products.
Q2: What is the core vision behind this project?
Our vision is to establish Sri Lanka as a leader in the global Aloe vera industry by producing high-quality, organic products that promote health and wellness. We aim to create sustainable employment opportunities, contribute to the country’s GDP, and provide a unique investment option that yields both financial and social returns. Ultimately, we want to elevate local communities by empowering individuals and providing a platform for long-term growth and prosperity.
Q3: What makes your Aloe vera project unique compared to others?
What sets us apart is our holistic approach. Beyond simply cultivating Aloe vera, we’ve designed this project to create direct and indirect job opportunities, foster economic empowerment, and provide investors with a secure, profitable option through plot ownership and cultivation returns. Our focus on transparency, sustainability, and long-term impact—both socially and economically—makes this project one of a kind.
Q4: How do you see this project impacting local communities in Sri Lanka?
This project has the potential to create profound change. We’re aiming to directly generate 500 jobs and provide 50,000 opportunities for self-empowerment. By transforming individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds into self-employed contributors to the GDP, we’re working towards breaking the cycle of poverty and establishing a new wave of economic empowerment in Sri Lanka.
Q5: How do investors benefit from partnering with your project?
Investors in our project gain a unique combination of security, growth potential, and social impact. We offer investors a deed of transfer for their purchased plot, monthly profit payouts, and the flexibility to withdraw with a three-month notice. Additionally, the land value appreciates over time, adding long-term financial benefits. With transparent access to view the land’s progress and cultivation activities, investors can feel confident in the impact and returns of their investment.
Q6: Can you tell us more about the environmental sustainability practices in place?
Absolutely. Sustainability is at the core of our operations. From organic cultivation of Aloe vera and TJC mango plants to minimal environmental impact practices, we’re committed to ecological health. This project is designed to be a model of sustainable agriculture, promoting organic practices that benefit the land, the local environment, and future generations.
Q7: What are some of the key products you are developing under this project?
Our product line includes a variety of high-quality Aloe vera-based items, such as fresh juice for immediate consumption, bottled juice with a six-month shelf life, Aloe vera ice cream, and yogurt. Each product is crafted to meet international standards, combining the natural benefits of Aloe vera with premium quality.
Q8: What role does this project play in boosting Sri Lanka’s economy and export portfolio?
This project contributes significantly to the economy by increasing the country’s export offerings and attracting foreign currency inflows. Through Aloe vera product exports and frozen mango chunks, we’re enhancing Sri Lanka’s export portfolio and supporting its economic growth, adding a new dimension to the nation’s agricultural industry.
Q9: Where do you see the future of this project, say, five or ten years from now?
In five to ten years, I envision this project setting a global benchmark for quality Aloe vera products, expanding its reach across international markets, and transforming lives in Sri Lanka. We aim to continuously increase our capacity, grow our product lines, and remain agile to market demands, all while maintaining our core commitment to sustainable and socially impactful practices.
Q10: What motivates you personally in leading this project?
For me, it’s more than a business—it’s about creating a legacy of prosperity and transformation. Knowing that we can empower individuals, create lasting economic opportunities, and contribute positively to Sri Lanka’s economy inspires me every day. My motivation is to see the positive impacts of this project extend across generations, proving that businesses can be powerful vehicles for social change.
Q11: Do you manufacture Aloe vera cosmetic products?
Yes, we produce a variety of Aloe vera-based skincare, healthcare, and haircare products. Each product is crafted to deliver the natural benefits of Aloe vera, meeting the growing demand for organic, effective personal care products.
Q12: Have you ventured into medical and pharmaceutical products?
Yes, we have invested millions of rupees in research and development, creating various medical and pharmaceutical formulations. Although these products are ready for commercial launch, we currently lack the in-house facilities for large-scale production. To bring these innovations to market, we’re planning to partner with third-party facilities that can support our launch requirements.
Q13: What measures do you take during cultivation, processing, and certification to ensure your Aloe vera products meet international organic standards, and how do you address potential challenges like contamination or verification of organic authenticity?
Ensuring our Aloe vera products are 100% organic involves a comprehensive approach spanning cultivation, processing, and certification. Here’s how we maintain and verify organic authenticity:
1. Cultivation Practices
- Chemical-Free Soil: We cultivate Aloe vera in certified organic land, ensuring the soil is free from chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides for at least three years prior to planting.
- Natural Fertilizers: We use organic compost and natural fertilizers like vermicompost to enrich the soil.
- Pest Control: Pest management is conducted using natural methods such as neem oil sprays and introducing beneficial insects, eliminating the need for synthetic pesticides.
- Sustainable Irrigation: Watering is done with purified or rainwater to avoid chemical contamination.
2. Processing Standards
- Dedicated Organic Facilities: Aloe vera leaves are processed in a controlled environment, ensuring no cross-contamination with non-organic materials.
- Preservation Methods: Natural preservatives like citric acid are used to retain freshness without compromising organic integrity.
- Cold Processing: We follow cold processing techniques to preserve the bioactive compounds of Aloe vera, maintaining its purity and potency.
3. Certification and Verification
- Organic Certification: Our farms and processes are certified by internationally recognized organic certification bodies, ensuring compliance with global organic standards.
- Regular Audits: Independent third-party audits are conducted regularly to verify organic practices at every stage.
- Traceability: We maintain a transparent traceability system, from farm to final product, to provide proof of organic authenticity to customers.
Addressing Challenges:
To prevent contamination, strict quality controls are in place. Fields, processing units, and equipment undergo regular cleaning and sterilization using approved organic methods.
By adhering to these meticulous practices and working closely with certification bodies, we confidently claim and deliver Aloe vera products that are 100% organic, meeting both local and international standards.