Tea production in Sri Lanka

Tea production in Sri Lanka

Tea production in Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon tea, is a significant industry in the country. Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producers in the world, renowned for its high-quality tea leaves. This article provides a detailed overview of tea production in Sri Lanka, including its history, cultivation, processing, and export.

History

Tea production in Sri Lanka has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The British introduced tea cultivation to the island in the early 1800s, transforming the country's agricultural landscape. Initially, coffee was the main cash crop in Sri Lanka, but due to a devastating coffee blight, the plantations were replaced with tea.

Cultivation

Tea cultivation in Sri Lanka primarily takes place in the central highlands of the country, known as the "tea country." The region's unique climate and elevation provide ideal conditions for growing tea. The tea plants thrive in the cool temperatures and abundant rainfall of the highlands.

The tea estates in Sri Lanka are typically located on steep slopes, which require terracing to prevent soil erosion. The tea bushes are planted in rows, and regular pruning is done to maintain the desired shape and size of the plants. The cultivation process also involves regular application of fertilizers and pest control measures to ensure healthy growth.

Processing

Once the tea leaves are harvested, they undergo a series of processing steps to transform them into the final product. The processing methods used in Sri Lanka are mainly influenced by the type of tea being produced, which includes black tea, green tea, and white tea.

For black tea production, the leaves are withered to reduce moisture content, rolled to release enzymes, fermented to develop flavor, and finally dried to halt the fermentation process. Green tea, on the other hand, undergoes minimal oxidation, with the leaves being steamed or pan-fried to preserve their natural green color. White tea is the least processed, with the leaves simply being withered and dried.

Export

Sri Lanka is a major exporter of tea, with its Ceylon tea being highly sought after in international markets. The country exports both bulk tea and value-added tea products, such as tea bags and flavored teas. The tea industry plays a crucial role in the country's economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and providing employment opportunities for thousands of people.

The main export destinations for Sri Lankan tea include the United Kingdom, Russia, Iran, Iraq, and the United States. The tea is packed and shipped in various forms, including loose leaf tea, tea bags, and instant tea.

Conclusion

Tea production in Sri Lanka has a long and storied history, with the country being renowned for its high-quality Ceylon tea. The cultivation, processing, and export of tea are vital components of the Sri Lankan economy. The industry continues to thrive, with Sri Lanka maintaining its position as one of the leading tea producers in the world.

See also

• Ceylon tea
• Tea
• Agriculture in Sri Lanka