Ministry of Tea in Galle great opportunity for entire tea industry and export sector: PM

The Ministry of Tea in Galle is a great opportunity

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena declared that the Ministry of Tea premises in Galle is a great opportunity for the entire tea industry of the country and the export sector. 

He expressed these views at the opening ceremony of the sales outlet of tea products called Ministry of Tea arranged for the high-quality Sri Lankan tea producers in Galle on 14 January.

“The tea industry is a particularly profitable sector for our country. Our tea industry brought the name ‘Ceylon tea’ to the world. It is true that there are other types of tea in the world today. Ceylon tea has a unique taste and people from all over the world are enjoying it. Not only is the export sector, but the tea industry itself also being transformed today,” he said.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the centre may have a special importance for our business sector to overcome challenges. Galle fell into the hands of the Portuguese for the first time. Later, the Dutch built the Galle Fort. The Dutch or the Netherlands built and preserved the Galle Fort with great commitment and interest, he claimed.

“The Government as well as the private sector came forward to develop various types of plantations including tea, rubber and coconut in Galle city. In addition to coffee, tea is also in demand. There are many restaurants in many countries of the world that only ask for tea. Therefore, this centre will continue to provide a big boost to the industry.

It is an honour for our country that Ceylon tea can be obtained from such a centre for those who are looking for novel experiences in tea flavours. “Since Galle is a tourist destination, our message travels all over the world. This creative endeavour taken for the promotion of the tea industry of our country, its marketing and international exposure should be highly appreciated,” the Prime Minister commented.

The event that was held at the invitation of Plantation Industry Minister Ramesh Pathirana, was attended by Southern Province Governor Willy Gamage, Members of Parliament Sampath Athukorala, Isuru Dodangoda, Yadamini Gunawardena, the Ministry Secretary and other officials.