Sri Lankan Cocopeat Companies Visit RHP Knowledge Centre in the Netherlands
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
