In pictures: Sri Lanka's spice of life

Growers sell their cured cinnamon at seasonal fairs - which serve as meeting points for producers and buyers - and at auctions.

Peelers traditionally attend the fairs with the growers, and the proceeds are often equally divided. This it's argued ensures quality control because it's in everyone's interests to maintain high standards. Here, Lalith Perera, a spice broker, auctions lots of cinnamon and other spices for his customers.