Diplomatic Desk:
On the occasion of International Tea Day, the Sri Lankan High Commission in Bangladesh organized a colorful “Tea Tasting Reception” in Dhaka on Thursday (May 21, 2026). Business representatives, tea industry professionals, travel trade representatives and media personnel participated in the event.
Speaking as the chief guest of the event, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dharmapala Weerakkody said that International Tea Day is not only a day to celebrate one of the world’s most popular beverages, ‘tea’, but also recognizes the livelihood, culture and tradition of millions of people associated with it.
He said that the United Nations General Assembly officially declared May 21 as International Tea Day in 2019. This recognition came with the initiative of tea-producing countries like Sri Lanka, India, China and Kenya and the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
The High Commissioner further said that tea is not just a beverage; it connects farmers, plantation workers, traders, exporters and consumers in a global economic chain, which is making a significant contribution to the rural economy and employment of many countries.
He noted that since the day was celebrated internationally for the first time in 2020, it has become an important platform to discuss various challenges and opportunities in the tea industry. Issues such as climate change, price fluctuations, worker welfare, sustainable production systems and the future of tea cultivation are now being discussed with great importance in the international arena.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s more than 150-year-old tea tradition, Dhammapala Weerakkody said that “Ceylon Tea” is well known worldwide for its excellent quality, distinctive aroma and special taste. The Sri Lanka Tea Board is conducting quality assurance, international promotion and innovative activities to maintain the reputation of Ceylon tea in the international market.
He further said that in recent years, Sri Lanka has been placing special emphasis on sustainable tea production, modern farming methods and climate-resilient agricultural systems. In addition, specialty teas, herbal blends and new types of value-added tea products for health-conscious consumers are also being promoted in the international market.
At the end of his speech, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka reiterated his commitment to work together with international partners to build a sustainable, fair and tolerant global tea industry.
At the event, guests tasted various traditional Sri Lankan teas and exchanged views on the global importance and heritage of the tea industry.
