Katara Cultural Village, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Doha, is set to host a Ceylon Tea Tasting Evening today. The event marks International Tea Day and commemorates 159 years of the renowned Ceylon tea industry. Guests will be invited to explore the heritage, craftsmanship, and distinctive aromas that have made Ceylon Tea one of the world’s most celebrated beverages.

Ceylon Tea enjoys a prominent position in the global market. Sri Lanka is recognized as the world’s leading producer and exporter of Orthodox Black Tea, a traditional method that preserves the leaf’s natural form, delivering superior flavor, aroma, and quality. Overall, the country ranks fourth in both global tea production and exports, reflecting decades of expertise and sustained investment in the sector.

The tea industry plays a central role in Sri Lanka’s economy, supporting a wide network of livelihoods. From small-scale farmers cultivating tea in misty highlands to estate workers handpicking leaves, factory employees processing and packaging, and global traders and retailers, the sector remains a cornerstone of rural communities and national economic stability.

Recent figures indicate steady growth in export earnings, increasing from $1.26 billion in 2022 to approximately $1.51 billion in 2025. Total production reached around 264.6 million kilograms in 2025, with low-grown teas accounting for the majority at 61%, followed by high-grown (21%) and medium-grown varieties (18%).

Ceylon Tea is distributed worldwide, reaching consumers across multiple continents. In 2025, the top destination markets included Iraq (15.31%), Russia (8.39%), Turkey (8.27%), Libya (7.36%), and the UAE (7.12%). Iraq has consistently remained the largest importer in recent years, highlighting the strong cultural connection to tea in regions such as the Middle East and Central Asia.

Other significant markets include Chile, China, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Saudi Arabia, further demonstrating the global demand for Sri Lanka’s tea.

Beyond its economic impact, tea carries deep cultural significance. International Tea Day 2026, observed on May 21, is themed “Sustaining Tea, Supporting Communities,” reflecting the industry’s social importance.

Tea supports millions of livelihoods worldwide and forms part of daily life for countless communities. It serves as a cultural bridge, connecting people across regions and traditions, while reflecting the shared human effort behind its production.

From the misty plantations of Nuwara-Eliya to tea factories in Dimbula and homes across cities like Baghdad, Moscow, and Santiago, Ceylon Tea represents more than just a drink. It embodies a story of heritage, dedication, and global connection.