In contrast to the increasing trend in farm size found in most agricultural sectors, the
absolute number of producers and relative share of total production from small farms
growing green leaf tea in Sri Lanka have increased significantly over time. The boom
in peasant production and the corresponding decline in plantations are due to the same
general drivers explaining the increase in farm size elsewhere. Government programs
and price effects that reduced revenue uncertainty and relative costs of production
have enhanced the competitive position of small farmers relative to large estates
