Sri Lanka showcases the heritage and excellence of Ceylon Tea
By Roy Lie Atjam
H.E. Rekha Gunasekera, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Netherlands, celebrated International Tea Day 2026 by hosting a special gathering at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in The Hague in May 21. The event also marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Netherlands.
Organized in partnership with the Sri Lanka Tea Board, the celebration formed part of a global initiative involving 27 Sri Lankan Embassies around the world to honour International Tea Day and highlight the cultural, social, and economic importance of tea.
On 21 December 2019, the United Nations designated 21 May as International Tea Day, recognizing the essential role tea plays in communities across the globe. More than simply a beverage, tea represents tradition, hospitality, cultural identity, and social connection, enjoyed in daily life as well as during important ceremonies.
At the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 21 May 2026, the theme “Tea for Harmony and Shared Development” highlighted tea’s unique ability to bring people together and promote cultural exchange. Ambassador Fu Cong of China concluded the celebration with an inspiring message:
“Let us join hands to seek harmony through tea and pursue shared development for all.”
Celebrating the legacy of Ceylon Tea
In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Rekha Gunasekera invited guests to celebrate “the rich heritage and exquisite flavours of Ceylon Tea.”
“As you may know, tea is one of the world’s oldest beverages and the most consumed drink globally after water. It is not only a widely enjoyed beverage, but also an essential symbol of hospitality, tradition, and social connection, holding deep cultural and social significance in many communities around the world.
“Moreover, tea supports the livelihoods of millions of farmers, workers, and families, particularly in developing countries. For this reason, the United Nations designated 21 May as International Tea Day, recognizing the cultural, social, and economic importance of tea worldwide.
“This year’s theme, ‘Sustaining Tea, Supporting Communities,’ serves as a reminder for us not only to enjoy tea, but also to appreciate the people, traditions, and hard work behind every cup. It encourages sustainable production that supports communities and ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy it.
“For Sri Lankans, tea is much more than an export product; it is a vital part of our identity. It is intricately woven into our culture, hospitality, and everyday life.
“In Sri Lanka, when someone visits your home, the first thing you offer them is a cup of tea. In fact, my grandmother would often say that it is considered impolite to offer a guest anything other than tea when they come to visit.”
The Ambassador recalled that since the 1880s, Ceylon Tea has been Sri Lanka’s principal and most renowned export, forming a cornerstone of the country’s economy for generations.
“Today, Ceylon Tea is famous around the world and holds a strong position in the global tea industry. Sri Lanka is currently the world’s largest producer and exporter of orthodox black tea. We are the fourth-largest tea producer and fourth-largest tea exporter globally.
“Last year, Sri Lanka’s tea export revenue reached US$1.5 billion. Looking at the Netherlands, after garments and liquid coconut milk, tea is one of our main exports to this country. Last year, tea exports to the Netherlands accounted for more than US$21 million, with an average growth rate of 9.21%.
“Known as one of the finest teas in the world, the unique flavour, fragrance, and freshness of Ceylon Tea set it apart.”
Quality, sustainability, and tradition
Ambassador Gunasekera highlighted the importance of the internationally recognized Lion Logo and Ceylon Tea trademarks, which guarantee the authenticity and quality of Sri Lankan tea.
“Ceylon Tea is exclusively handpicked by expert tea pluckers and is mostly produced through orthodox and artisan methods. It is also among the freshest teas available in the global market, expertly packed within three weeks of harvesting to preserve freshness, flavour, and aroma.
“Ceylon Tea is the first ozone-friendly tea in the world recognized under the Montreal Protocol Treaty and does not use methyl bromide during packaging and shipping. We are also the first Ethical Tea Brand of the World recognized by the United Nations Global Compact.”
To maintain these high standards, tea growers receive continuous training in Good Agricultural Practices, while processing and manufacturing facilities operated by export companies comply with national and international certifications, including standards established by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI), ISO, HACCP, and European Union requirements.
Full traceability throughout the supply chain ensures that Sri Lankan tea is produced according to the highest social and environmental standards.
A journey through Sri Lanka’s tea regions
The Ambassador also highlighted the diversity of Sri Lanka’s tea-growing regions.
“The panoramic tea gardens of Sri Lanka provide a countless number of blends. While tea is produced throughout the year, the main tea-growing areas are concentrated in the central highlands and southern inland regions of the island.
“The diverse climate of Sri Lanka has resulted in an array of fine teas, each unique to its own agro-climatic district. There are seven prime tea-growing regions, and later today you will have the unique opportunity to experience all seven varieties of tea.”
She added that green tea has also gained an important position in Sri Lanka’s export portfolio, with the country currently exporting green tea to more than 40 countries.
“As market demands continue to evolve, in addition to value-added tea, there is also growing demand for speciality teas. These artisanal teas are crafted in small batches through skilled, hands-on processing, guided by the experience, judgment, and sensory expertise of tea artisans. This afternoon, you will also have the opportunity to experience these teas firsthand.”
An evening dedicated to tea and friendship
Concluding her remarks, Ambassador Gunasekera encouraged guests to reflect on the many people involved in bringing every cup of Ceylon Tea to the world.
“As you enjoy today’s journey through the world of Ceylon Tea, I hope you will take a moment to think about the many hands and hearts behind every cup and the care that goes into producing it.”
She expressed her appreciation to the Sri Lanka Tea Board, the Ceylon Artisanal Tea Association (CATA), Empire Tea, the International Tea & Coffee Academy in the Netherlands, the Brand Ambassador of Monin, and the Embassy staff for their support in organizing the event.
The programme featured video messages from the Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure and the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tea Board. Guests also heard presentations from Mr Sahampathy, Dissanayake of Empire Teas, Mr Richard Schukkink, and Mr Erik Ballema.
The celebration concluded with a networking reception in the beautiful garden of the Embassy’s Chancellery, where guests enjoyed exquisite Ceylon Tea accompanied by delicious Sri Lankan snacks. The warm and welcoming atmosphere provided the perfect ending to an evening dedicated to celebrating tea, friendship, and the enduring ties between Sri Lanka and the Netherlands.
