Title: Determinants of Innovative mechanised harvesting in Sri Lankan tea plantations

Authors: T.G. Nimal Mahinda; Mohamed Esham; H.S.R. Rosairo; H.W. Shyamalie

Addresses: Advisory Division, Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka, Talawakelle, Sri Lanka ' Department of Agribusiness Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka ' Department of Agribusiness Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka ' Agriculture Economic Division, Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka, Talawakelle, Sri Lanka

Abstract: Sri Lankan tea plantations are facing severe labour shortages due to several factors. This issue directly affects tea prices and, consequently, the entire global tea-drinking community. Although innovative mechanised harvesting (IMH) is an alternative approach, tea plantations in South Asia have not adopted it largely. To ensure the successful adoption of IMH, this study examines the key determinants of IMH from a practical perspective. Data for this cross-sectional study were collected through a survey in tea plantations. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The positive attitude of plantation managers, organisational factors, facilitation, and crop factors are the most significant determinants. The perceived usefulness and ease of use of IMH have a significant impact on the attitude of managers which have not been statistically tested before. The study suggests developing a platform where IMH adopters can share their experiences in order to improve adoption.

Keywords: adoption; determinants; labour shortage; innovative; mechanised harvesting; tea plantation; Sri Lanka.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2024.147894

International Journal of Agriculture Innovation, Technology and Globalisation, 2024 Vol.4 No.4, pp.334 - 358

Received: 11 Dec 2024
Accepted: 08 Feb 2025
Published online: 07 Aug 2025 *

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