The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Netherlands organised a visit for a delegation of Sri Lankan cocopeat companies comprising NB Coir, Marisha Coco Products, Green Space International, Eco Films and Cocopeat Lanka to the RHP Knowledge Centre in the Netherlands on 12 June 2026. The visit was organized by the Embassy with a view to provide the Sri Lankan participants with insights into Netherlands quality standards, market requirements, and innovations in the horticulture substrate industry.

Director of RHP, Martine Holtkamp provided an overview of the organization's work, certification systems, and ongoing research activities to the company representatives. The delegation also had a discussion with Operational Director of RHP, Marco Zevenhoven whose practical recommendations and observations provided valuable insights into further enhancing product quality and strengthening Sri Lanka's position in the global substrate industry. The company representatives were also given a tour of the RHP laboratory, enabling them to gain firsthand knowledge of the testing and quality assurance processes applied to growing media products.

The visit provided an excellent opportunity for the participating companies to deepen their understanding of the European market, explore avenues for value addition, and learn more about the certification requirements that support access to international markets. The visit also facilitated closer engagement between Sri Lankan producers and RHP, particularly for companies interested in obtaining RHP certification for their products. The insights gained during the visit are expected to contribute to the continued development and competitiveness of Sri Lanka's cocopeat and coir industry in global markets.

Established in 1963, RHP is the leading European knowledge centre for growing media and substrates. The organization manages and develops the RHP and RAG quality marks for raw materials and substrates used in professional horticulture, landscaping, and consumer markets. Many cocopeat products entering the European market, particularly the Netherlands, are required to meet RHP certification standards. RHP has also played a pioneering role in the development of buffering treatment techniques that help address plant nutrition challenges and improve the performance of coir.

 Embassy of Sri Lanka
The Hague

23 June 2026