SL Makes Packaging History with South Asia’s First Tetra Recart Line

Sri Lanka has reached a major milestone in sustainable packaging innovation with Wichy Plantation Company Ltd. commissioning South Asia’s first Tetra Recart R2 production line, marking a significant advancement for the country’s food processing and export sectors.

The strategic investment positions Sri Lanka at the forefront of next-generation, paper-based packaging while ensuring readiness for upcoming European Union food-contact regulations. The new facility supports compliance with evolving requirements, including BPA-related standards set to take effect from 2027.

Wichy, a pioneer in Sri Lanka’s coconut milk exports since 1984, continues its four-decade legacy of industry leadership with the introduction of Tetra Recart R2 technology. The transition from conventional retortable packaging to advanced carton-based formats delivers enhanced sustainability, improved product quality, and greater consumer convenience.

“Wichy has always been a trendsetter,” said Ashoka Siriwardena, Chairman of parent company Wardena Venture Holdings. “We take pride in exporting Sri Lankan products that excel in quality, safety, and value. Innovation remains at the core of everything we do.”

Beyond regulatory readiness, the new facility introduces industry-leading operational flexibility. Equipped with three independent fillers, the line enables the simultaneous packaging of liquid, semi-liquid, and solid products in a single production run, significantly expanding product development opportunities.

“This investment brings next-generation technology that allows us to compete with global players in any market,” said Indika Perera, Group CEO and Executive Director. “It accelerates our ambition to become the leading exporter of coconut and food products from Sri Lanka.”

Tetra Pak’s retortable carton solution offers clear advantages over traditional tin cans and glass jars, including extended shelf life, improved recyclability, reduced carbon footprint, and superior transport efficiency. Its easy-open and re-close functionality also aligns with evolving consumer preferences in sustainability-focused markets, particularly in Europe.

“This milestone underscores Wichy’s leadership and commitment to innovation,” said Cassio Simões, Managing Director of Tetra Pak South Asia. “Together, we have introduced South Asia’s first Tetra Recart solution for coconut-based products, advancing sustainability and future-ready food packaging.”

The impact of the facility extends beyond Wichy’s own operations. Through co-packing partnerships, Sri Lankan exporters across categories such as fruits, vegetables, seafood, and ready meals can now access world-class packaging technology without heavy capital investment.

The project was executed entirely using in-house expertise, reflecting the company’s strong technical capabilities. “Our people were central to the planning and execution of this milestone,” said Group HR Director Sarath Jayasinghe.

Operating under globally recognised certifications including BRCGS AA+, IFS, BSCI, SEDEX, Fairtrade, and Naturland, Wichy maintains preferred supplier status with leading international retailers and has earned multiple national accolades, including Presidential and NCE Export Awards.

“This investment is driven by consumer insights and future market needs,” said Sector CEO Charithra Hettiarachchi. “It future-proofs our business while reinforcing our commitment to sustainable, compliant, and innovative solutions for global markets.”

As Sri Lanka strengthens its position within global value chains, Wichy’s commissioning of the Tetra Recart R2 line demonstrates how strategic innovation and sustainability-led investment can elevate national industries to international leadership.