SL reaffirms commitment to sustainability at International Tea Day conference in China

Plantations and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyaratne says future of tea industry must be built on economic growth, social responsibility, environmental sustainability and empowerment of teagrowing communities; Highlights Ceylon Tea continues to represent quality, trust, and reliability globally over 150 years; Describes tea as a form of "soft diplomacy" capable of building stronger ties between nations

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PLANTATIONS and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyaratne yesterday reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to building a sustainable and community-focused tea industry, while calling for stronger international cooperation to safeguard the future of global tea production.

Addressing the International Tea Day Conference in Nanning, Guangxi, Vidyaratne said the future of the tea industry must be built not only on economic growth, but also on social responsibility, environmental sustainability and the empowerment of tea-growing communities.

The conference, held under the theme “Safeguarding the Sustainability of the Tea Industry, Empowering Communities,” brought together representatives from major tea-producing countries and international organisations.

He stressed that tea extends beyond being a commercial commodity and remains deeply connected to culture, tradition, and international relations.

“Tea is not just a drink. It is a symbol of culture, friendship, hospitality, and human communication that has connected civilisations for centuries,” he said.

Highlighting the significance of tea to Sri Lanka’s economy and national identity, Vidyaratne said Ceylon Tea continues to represent quality, trust, and reliability globally more than 150 years after the industry was established.

“For over 150 years, Ceylon Tea has carried the name of Sri Lanka around the world, exemplifying quality, reliability and trust,” he said.