CBL Foods highlights illegal confectionery surge & warns of consumer safety
The company stated that most of the products sold were expired and do not carry the basic nutrient content.
SRI LANKA – Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), a confectionery manufacturer, has pointed out that the rise in illegal confectionery products entering Sri Lanka’s local market is posing significant challenges for the legitimate businesses and creating health risks for the consumers.
According to CBL Foods International, the market is gradually being surged by illegal confectionery products as there is widespread sale of such in all parts of the country. It stated that most of the products were expired and do not even carry the basic nutrient content.
CBL Foods International CEO and Director Kamal Geeganage, said, “This is turning out to be a major challenge for companies like us engaged in legal and ethically bound businesses, adhering to government standards, regulations and paying the taxes and also poses health risks to the consumers.”
He highlighted that, while illegal confectionery products primarily enter Sri Lanka through baggage, the scale of the issue suggests the involvement of other illicit channels.
He emphasised that continuous requests have been made to government authorities to enforce regulations and take consistent action against the illegal importation of food items. According to him, persistent advocacy is required to prompt any significant measures.
CBL Group enters Kenyan market
Recently, the company officially entered the Kenyan market, introducing its renowned Munchee biscuits and Ritzbury chocolates.
This strategic expansion, in partnership with Expolanka Freight Limited (EFL), Global Kenya and local distributor Peniel Acumen Distributors, aims to establish a robust distribution hub in Nairobi, enhancing CBL’s presence across East Africa.
The launch event was graced by former Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Kenya, Kana Kananathan, who emphasized the significance of this collaboration in strengthening trade ties between Sri Lanka and Kenya.
He lauded the entrepreneurs for their substantial investments in Africa, highlighting the role such ventures play in regional growth and development. Kananathan assured that through Sri Lanka’s robust network, all necessary support would be provided to Sri Lankan businesses aiming to establish a foothold in Africa.
Wasantha Ranasinghe, Managing Director of EFL, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration.
“We are thrilled to partner with CBL Group. Our logistics expertise will ensure that consumers across Kenya can easily access these high-quality snacks,” Ranasinghe stated.
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