Monaragala, Sri Lanka — In a landmark initiative to uplift Sri Lanka’s rural rubber economy, Dipped Products PLC (DPL), a member of the Hayleys Group, has officially opened a state-of-the-art latex collection centre and laboratory facility for smallholder rubber farmers in Monaragala.
Powered by an investment of over Rs. 50 million, the initiative connects smallholder farmers to expand market reach via improved quality and traceability.
Monaragala is home to a large community of smallholder rubber farmers who have long contributed to Sri Lanka’s rubber supply. Despite their vital role, many have lacked access to scientific testing and quality-based pricing systems, resulting in inconsistent earnings and product variability.
DPL’s new facility addresses these long-standing gaps, offering a modern latex collection centre and fully equipped laboratory to support local producers.
The laboratory tests for key quality parameters, including Dry Rubber Content (DRC), ammonia levels, volatile fatty acids (VFA), and microbial contamination—critical measures to ensure product consistency and globally compliant standards.
Previously, local farmers had to rely on Colombo-based labs for DRC results. With the establishment of the new DPL facility, they can now access readings locally within just two days. The open-door policy also allows farmers to witness the process firsthand, building trust through transparency.
“The Monaragala facility is an investment in both infrastructure and livelihoods,” said Dipped Products PLC Managing Director, Pushpika Janadheera. “Through greater transparency, traceability and scientific insight, we’re enabling smallholder farmers to gain access to lucrative global markets while ensuring our supply chain remains sustainable.”
In addition to driving quality improvement, the centre will support compliance with internationally recognized certifications including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), enabling local latex to meet stringent environmental and social benchmarks. The initiative also encourages youth participation in the rubber sector, offering technology-driven job opportunities in a region often affected by migration, unemployment and poverty.
The latex collection centre includes quality-controlled storage facilities to ensure latex stability and minimize spoilage. The facility also acts as a knowledge-sharing hub where farmers can receive guidance on sustainable harvesting, post-harvest handling, and best practices to reduce contamination.
This initiative aligns closely with DPL’s broader sustainability agenda, including its ESG roadmap, DPL Pulse, launched in 2023. The Monaragala model is expected to serve as a blueprint for future facilities in other underdeveloped rubber-growing districts, with the aim of building a more inclusive, resilient, and high-performing rubber sector across Sri Lanka.
“We never thought we’d see a facility like this in Monaragala,” said Wasantha Bandara, a smallholder farmer. “We’ve always worked hard, but now we finally have the tools and backing to go further.”
As DPL celebrates its 50th year of operation, the Monaragala Latex Collection and Laboratory stands as a testament to the company’s enduring commitment to sustainability, rural development, and global excellence.
The success of the Monaragala facility signals a long-term investment in a stronger, more equitable rubber value chain for Sri Lanka.
