Total Factor Productivity Growth in the Food Crop Sector of Sri Lanka From 1990-2017

The study estimated the Total Factor Productivity (TFP) growth in Sri Lankan food crop sector from 1990- 2017 using Tornqvist-Theil index assuming translog production technology and a competitive market. TFP of paddy, maize, potato, big onion, chilli soybean has increased after 2000. highest is recorded for maize 2011 -2015 that contributed to about 68% growth. costless advances applied technology, managerial efficiency, industrial organization brought Lanka are discussed. diffusion new considerably varied by crop. Although benefited through spillovers, terms varieties with higher yields, adaptability was slow diffuse other sectors. Mechanization largely substituted labour many sectors due rising wage rate. contract grower system credible institutional innovation sector. Technological capital prerequisite cost reduction Hence long-term commitment agricultural research development investments governments aid agencies required.