The Central Bank Governor of Sri Lanka, Nandalal Weerasinghe, has urged citizens to exercise caution when considering investments in high-return crop cultivation ventures. Many individuals have inadvertently become involved in these unregulated investments, which often resemble illegal pyramid schemes.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in unregulated investment schemes targeting agricultural lands in Sri Lanka. These schemes frequently entice investors by promising land ownership and guaranteed monthly incomes through signed agreements. Promoted as opportunities to invest in commercial farming or eco-friendly projects, these ventures offer seemingly attractive returns amidst the nation’s economic difficulties.

However, the absence of proper regulatory oversight for these schemes has raised significant concerns about their legitimacy and the protection of investors’ rights. “Investment agents claim that by cultivating various crops, they can offer higher returns,” Weerasinghe explained. “For instance, they suggest that growing ni-miris (scotch bonnet pepper) can yield a monthly interest of 30% or 40%, which translates to over 120% annually. People need to understand that if such profits were achievable, they could undertake these investments themselves.”

Weerasinghe emphasized that achieving such high returns is practically impossible and that there is no need to entrust money to others under the pretense of securing such profits. The Central Bank has noted a growing trend of the public being drawn into fraudulent investment schemes within the plantation and agriculture sectors.

“It is crucial to remember that plantation investments are unregulated. If you lose your money, there is no regulatory authority to address your complaint. This sector is entirely unregulated,” Weerasinghe cautioned. He further mentioned that individuals are being promised deeds for the cultivation they have invested in after signing contracts, purportedly to protect their investments.

Currently, 18 individuals or organizations are under investigation for their involvement in such investments, which are considered illegal deposits. (Colombo/January 30/2026)