The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, jointly with the Sri Lanka Tea Board, successfully organized a special Ceylon Tea Tasting Session on 21 May 2026 to commemorate International Tea Day. The event brought together tea importers, diplomats, media representatives, and tea enthusiasts to celebrate the rich heritage and global excellence of Ceylon Tea.

The programme highlighted the uniqueness, quality, and sustainability of Ceylon Tea through presentations, video screenings, and a live tea tasting experience.

The event commenced with welcome remarks delivered by the Consul General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, Achini Perera, who emphasized the significance of International Tea Day and the important role played by the Sri Lankan tea industry in the country's economy, culture, and global trade. She also highlighted Sri Lanka's longstanding reputation for producing premium-quality tea while maintaining sustainable and ethical production practices.

A presentation on Ceylon Tea was conducted by Minister (Commerce), Rekha Mallikarachchi, showcasing the history, distinct characteristics, economic impact, and the regional diversity of Sri Lanka's world-renowned tea. The presentation also focused on the seven agro-climatic regions of Ceylon Tea and their unique flavour profiles.

The highlight of the evening was an interactive tea tasting session conducted by experienced tea planter and tea taster Pujitha Ubayasiri. Guests were introduced to the distinctive tastes and aromas of teas produced in the seven tea-growing regions of Sri Lanka, while gaining insights into tea manufacturing, grading, and artisanal tea production.

The programme also featured video presentations on Ceylon Tea, tea production processes, artisanal teas, and sustainability initiatives undertaken by the Sri Lankan tea industry. Guests had the opportunity to sample a variety of premium Ceylon Teas and artisanal teas, and to network with industry representatives and fellow attendees.

The event successfully promoted awareness of authentic Ceylon Tea and further strengthened Sri Lanka's engagement with tea importers and consumers in the United States. The Consulate General expressed appreciation to all participants and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Sri Lankan products and cultural heritage internationally.

Consulate General of Sri Lanka

Los Angeles

27 May 2026