Australia has emerged as a significant market for Ceylon tea, with a growing appreciation for its premium quality and health benefits. Sri Lanka was the second-largest tea exporter to Australia in 2018, and in 2019, tea exports to Australia exceeded US$ 25 million. The heightened focus on health and wellness due to the COVID-19 pandemic has further increased the demand for Ceylon tea in Australia, as consumers seek natural ways to boost their well-being. Recently, two remarkable events, a “Ceylon Tea Evening” and a “Virtual Ceylon Tea Evening,” organized by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Melbourne, showcased the diverse regional flavours of Ceylon tea, and highlighted its significance in promoting well-being, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ceylon Tea Evening
The Ceylon Tea Evening held in Melbourne brought together distinguished personalities from various fields, including politicians, business leaders, tea experts, and media representatives. The event aimed to unite the multicultural Victorian society through the shared love for tea. The Co-Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Friends in the Victorian Parliament, Craig Ondarchie, expressed his personal connection to Ceylon tea and emphasized the event’s role in fostering cultural harmony. Guests were treated to the delightful experience of tasting iced tea made with Ceylon tea and savouring warmly brewed pure Ceylon tea.
Virtual Ceylon Tea Evening
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Melbourne organized a unique “Virtual Ceylon Tea Evening.” This virtual event attracted a wide range of participants, including representatives from Australian government bodies, trade organizations, and hoteliers. The event highlighted the importance of Ceylon tea as an essential immunity booster during the pandemic. Panellists, including industry experts and tea enthusiasts, discussed the premium quality of Ceylon tea, its health benefits, and its ability to strengthen the immune system and reduce stress.
Both events served as platforms to promote Ceylon tea in Australia. The Sri Lanka Tea Board, the Australian Tea Masters, and esteemed individuals from the tea industry showcased the seven distinct regional flavours of Ceylon tea. Former Sri Lanka national cricket captain Tilakaratne Dilshan added glamour to the Ceylon Tea Evening by presenting attendees with gift teas from his own Ceylon tea brand. The Sri Lanka Tea Board also distributed special tea masks as unique gifts to event participants.
Reference – Ministry of Foreign Affairs