The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing successfully commemorated International Tea Day 2026 on 29 May 2026, bringing together over 75 distinguished guests from China’s tea industry as well as from the trade, tourism, and media sectors.

The event was graced by a high-level Sri Lankan delegation consisting of 20 parliamentarians led by Deputy Minister of Mass Media Dr. Kaushalya Ariyarathne. Also participating were Deputy Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply T. B. Sarath and four senior Parliament officials, currently on an official visit to China. Their presence underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to promoting Ceylon Tea and bilateral trade ties.

Among the guests were representatives from leading Chinese tea associations, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), chambers of commerce, and tourism sector stakeholders.

In her address, Deputy Chief of Mission Poornima Gunasekera highlighted Ceylon Tea as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s heritage, quality, and friendship with China. She noted Sri Lanka’s robust quality assurance and traceability systems, and its position as a leading exporter of black tea to China. She invited guests to experience Ceylon Tea in authentic Sri Lankan styles – tea with sugar and tea with Ceylon cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, which she introduced to them as Ceylon Sweet Tea and Ceylon Spice Tea respectively – and to visit Sri Lanka’s tea-country landscapes and tourism offerings.

Delivering the keynote speech, Deputy Minister Dr. Kaushalya Ariyarathne described tea as central to Sri Lanka’s national identity and economy. She highlighted government initiatives to improve tea producers’ welfare through wage increases and social support, reflecting Sri Lanka’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. She reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to expanding Ceylon Tea exports to China and deepening people-to-people ties.

Guests enjoyed a curated exhibition of Ceylon Tea from seven growing regions, featuring leading Sri Lankan brands. An authentic tea preparation demonstration at home showcased how Ceylon Tea is brewed for drinking. Sri Lanka’s tourism potential was also promoted through displays of beaches, cultural heritage, wildlife, and tea-country experiences.

The event concluded with a reception of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and diverse Ceylon teas, which was warmly received by all participants.

Embassy of Sri Lanka  

Beijing  

10 June 2026