Sri Lanka proudly participated in the inaugural Venice Tea Day 2026, held on 20–21 June at the historic Scuola Grande di San Marco in Venice, Italy. The event brought together tea professionals, educators, artisans, researchers and tea enthusiasts from across the world to explore tea as a cultural, sensory and human experience beyond its commercial dimension.

The two-day programme featured conferences, masterclasses, workshops, tea tastings, cultural performances and discussions examining tea through the lenses of heritage, sustainability, health, craftsmanship and contemporary tea culture. The Main Conference, titled “Beyond the Origins: The Present and Future of Tea Through the Voices of Sri Lanka and India”, provided a platform for dialogue between producer countries and European tea communities, while the afternoon programme offered participants with opportunities to deepen their understanding of tea through interactive workshops and guided tastings.

Representing Sri Lanka at the opening session, Minister Counsellor (Commercial) of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Milan, Tharaka Botheju highlighted the enduring significance of Ceylon Tea to the country's identity, economy and cultural heritage, while reaffirming Sri Lanka's commitment to sustainable and ethical tea production.

Sri Lanka's presence at Venice Tea Day was further enriched by the participation of the Ceylon Artisanal Tea Association (CATA). The Chairman of CATA Neethanjana Senadheera delivered a presentation on the evolving story of Ceylon Tea and conducted a special workshop introducing participants to exceptional artisanal teas from Sri Lanka. Through guided tastings and discussions, participants gained insight into the craftsmanship and innovation that distinguish Sri Lanka's artisanal tea sector.

Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the programme, traditional Sri Lankan dance performances were presented during the opening ceremony and at the conclusion of the morning conference. The Traditional Sri Lankan Tea Dance offered participants a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of Sri Lanka's tea plantation communities and the human stories behind every leaf of tea.

Sri Lanka offered a selection of traditional Sri Lankan delicacies paired with premium Ceylon Tea. The tasting experience was warmly received by participants, many of whom demonstrated a deep appreciation for tea culture and craftsmanship. It was particularly encouraging to witness such enthusiasm among dedicated tea lovers in Italy—a country renowned for its coffee culture—highlighting the growing interest in specialty teas and the stories, traditions and values they represent.

Consulate General of Sri Lanka

Milan

01 July 2026