More than two hundred years ago, the history of Sri Lankan tea began when Sri Lanka was still a British colony in 1824. During that period, a tea plant was brought by from China to Ceylon, planting it for personal use rather than selling. In 1839, additional tea plants from Assam and Calcutta were introduced to Sri Lanka, marking the commencement of experimental tea cultivation on the island. This historical journey laid the foundation for the tea industry in Sri Lanka.
James Taylor, a Scotsman, played a crucial role in commercializing tea in Sri Lanka. He arrived in 1852, established a tea plantation in Kandy, and, in 1867, started a 19-acre tea plantation in Loolecondera estate. The success led to the transformation of nearby estates into tea plantations. Taylor’s fully equipped tea factory began operations in 1872, and in 1875, the first shipment of Ceylon tea reached London. As Ceylon tea gained global popularity, the need for a tea sales platform arose. The Colombo Tea Auction, established in 1883, is considered the world’s oldest and largest tea auction centre. The Ceylon Tea Traders Association, formed in 1894, oversees tea sales in Sri Lanka.
Sir Thomas Lipton, another Scotsman, played a pivotal role in shaping the Sri Lankan tea industry. In the late 19th century, Lipton recognized the potential of Ceylon as an ideal location for tea cultivation. He invested in plantations, introducing innovative farming practices and establishing his own tea brand. Lipton’s commitment to ethical farming practices, fair wages, and improved working conditions for laborers set a benchmark in the industry. His legacy continues to thrive, contributing significantly to the global recognition and success of Sri Lankan tea. Sir Lipton’s vision not only transformed the island into a major tea exporter but also left an enduring mark on the ethos of responsible and sustainable tea production.
In 1965, Sri Lanka became the world’s largest tea exporter. The government nationalized British-owned tea estates in the early 1970s. The Tea Research Institute, founded in 1925, aimed to maximize yields and improve production methods. By the 1960s, tea production and exports exceeded 200,000 hectares and 200,000 metric tons, respectively.
Sri Lanka celebrated the industry’s 125th anniversary in 1992. In 2001, online tea sales began, and a Tea Museum was established in Kandy in 2002. By 2013, Sri Lanka was the fourth-largest tea producer and the world’s largest tea exporter, accounting for 19% of global demand, with an annual export volume of around 320,000 metric tons and earnings of US$1.5 billion. Today, Sri Lankan tea is renowned for its distinctive taste and aroma, making it a major player in the global tea market.
From 2015 to 2020, the Ceylon tea industry continued to thrive as a major player in the global market. Sri Lanka maintained its reputation for producing high-quality tea with a unique flavour profile. The industry saw advancements in sustainability practices, with increased focus on eco-friendly cultivation methods and ethical labour practices. In response to changing consumer preferences, there was a growing interest in specialty and artisanal teas, showcasing the industry’s ability to adapt and cater to diverse market demands. The period also witnessed efforts to promote Ceylon tea through digital marketing and online sales platforms, further expanding its reach. Despite facing challenges such as adverse weather conditions and fluctuations in global tea prices, the Ceylon tea industry demonstrated resilience and continued to contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy during this timeframe.
