Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels, together with the Sri Lanka Tea Board, successfully hosted an exclusive tea workshop titled “Journey Through the 7 Regions of Ceylon Tea” on 28 May 2026 at the Sri Lanka Residence in Brussels, commemorating International Tea Day 2026.
The event attracted over 40 participants, including officials from the Directorate General for Agriculture & Rural Development of the European Commission (DG AGRI), tea importers, distributors, specialty retailers, tea sommeliers, and tea enthusiasts from across Belgium.
Delivering the welcome remarks, Ambassador Chandana Weerasena emphasized the global significance of International Tea Day, declared by the United Nations, and how this industry has integrated with Sri Lankan economy, culture, life styles, values systems, poverty alleviations, transport networks etc. He also explained how Sri Lanka has a rare diversity in specialty of its tea production and in such a small country compact with unique 07 reginal tea varieties which are different to each other in their flavor, colour, fragrance, and the taste. It is unparalleled to the rest of the tea industries in the world.
Minister Commercial of the Embassy, Thavishya Mullegamgoda, pres ented an overview of the tea sector in Sri Lanka, emphasizing its exceptional variety, sustainable cultivation practices, and competitive edge for Ceylon tea in premium Belgian and European markets. Her presentation highlighted the importance of innovation, branding, and quality assurance in strengthening the global identity of Ceylon Tea. She also shared the story behind every cup of tea, a story of land, labour, and love.
Stijn Van Schoonlandt, a certified tea master, owner of Kruze Tea Belgium, an international speaker, board member of the European Specialty Tea Association, and regional director for Europe of the International Tea Masters Association, conducted an exclusive Ceylon tea tasting session. He further elaborated on the premium quality, rich aroma, refreshing taste, and diverse regional characteristics cultivated across Sri Lanka’s unique climatic seven tea growing regions. Each regional black tea was carefully brewed and presented in an interactive tasting session, allowing participants to identify and appreciate the unique flavour profiles and characteristics of each tea.
Product samples provided by Sri Lankan tea exporters were displayed at the venue enabling guests to explore the teas’ aromas, textures, diversity and packaging firsthand.
The event concluded with a networking session during which participants engaged with Embassy officials and discussed future opportunities to further expand the footprint of Ceylon tea in Belgium and across Europe. Guests also enjoyed traditional Sri Lankan canapés thoughtfully paired with the selected Ceylon teas and tea mocktails served, providing a memorable cultural and gastronomic experience.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Brussels
04 June 2026
