The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Dhaka, Bangladesh celebrated International Tea Day on 21 May 2026 with a tea tasting reception held at the Royal Park Residence Hotel in Dhaka. The event was attended by members of the business community, representatives of the tea trade, the hotel and travel sectors, and members of the print and electronic media in Bangladesh.

The observance of International Tea Day has gained global recognition through the collective efforts of tea-producing countries and international organizations. In 2019, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated 21 May as International Tea Day, following sustained advocacy by tea-producing nations and the support of international partners, including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Since then, International Tea Day has served as an important platform to raise public awareness of the vital role of tea in supporting sustainable livelihoods and rural development, while also highlighting key challenges facing the global tea industry, including price volatility, the impact of climate change on tea cultivation, labour welfare, gender equality in plantations, and the sustainability of global tea value chains.

Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody highlighted the significance of International Tea Day, observed annually on 21 May, as a global recognition of the millions of people whose livelihoods, traditions, and cultures are closely linked with tea.

The High Commissioner noted that tea is more than a beverage; it is a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and cultural connection across nations. He also underscored Sri Lanka’s proud heritage as one of the world’s leading tea-producing countries, with Ceylon Tea internationally renowned for its exceptional quality, aroma, and flavour.

The High Commissioner further highlighted the important role played by the Sri Lanka Tea Board in promoting and safeguarding the global reputation of Ceylon Tea. Through quality assurance, international marketing campaigns, research, and support for value-added tea products, the Tea Board continues to strengthen Sri Lanka’s position in competitive global markets while encouraging sustainable and innovative practices within the tea industry.

The programme included an insightful presentation on Ceylon Tea by Second Secretary of the High Commission, Gayanga Dias highlighting the rich tradition and exceptional quality of Ceylon Tea and the screening of several Ceylon Tea promotional videos.  A range of Ceylon tea products and different tea grades were also displayed, and participants were able to taste various varieties of Ceylon tea during the tea tasting session.

The event further highlighted Sri Lanka’s continued commitment to sustainable tea production, innovation in value-added tea products, and cooperation with international partners to promote a fair and resilient global tea industry.

High Commission of Sri Lanka
Dhaka
26 May 2026