A delegation of experts and specialists from the UK tea industry is visiting Sri Lanka this week to forge stronger connections with the country’s specialty tea producers and identify new business opportunities.
The trade mission, organized under the UK Government-funded United Kingdom Trade Partnerships (UKTP) programme and implemented by the International Trade Centre, aims to connect 12 UK tea companies with Sri Lankan specialty tea producers from low, mid, and upcountry regions. The mission highlights the unique flavors and variations of Sri Lankan tea, shaped by the island’s diverse climatic conditions.
During the visit, UK buyers will experience artisanal tea harvesting methods and distinctive processing techniques that produce premium, curated teas. Additionally, they will gain valuable insights into the environmental, ethical, and social practices adopted by Sri Lankan tea producers.
Jarmila Sarda, UKTP Programme Manager, emphasized the significance of the mission:
“This trade mission provides a valuable opportunity for United Kingdom tea buyers to directly engage with high-quality Sri Lankan tea producers. By fostering these direct connections, we aim to strengthen trade relationships and contribute to the sustainable growth of both the United Kingdom and Sri Lankan tea sectors.”
A tea reception hosted by the British High Commission in Colombo will serve as a networking platform for UK buyers and Sri Lankan stakeholders, including members of the Ceylon Artisanal Tea Association (CATA).
British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick remarked:
“It is great to welcome a delegation of UK tea buyers here in Sri Lanka—a demonstration of our shared love for high-quality, specialty tea. I hope that over the course of the week, new and fruitful partnerships will be created to further strengthen the UK-Sri Lanka trade relationship.”
The UKTP programme underscores its commitment to unlocking trade potential in priority sectors and promoting sustainable economic growth. By facilitating direct market access and building partnerships, the initiative supports developing countries in leveraging United Kingdom and European Union Economic Partnership Agreements and the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme.
This mission highlights the shared vision of enhancing the global specialty tea industry and strengthening the UK-Sri Lanka trade relationship.
