Media Release
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.
Martine Holtkamp, Director of RHP, 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 Marco Zevenhoven, Operational Director of RHP, 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
19 June 2026
