The Colombo Tea Traders’ Association (CTTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the global competitiveness of Ceylon Tea following the successful conclusion of its 132nd Annual General Meeting held at the Lumina Ballroom of Cinnamon Life Hotel in Colombo.
The event brought together leading representatives from Sri Lanka’s tea industry, government institutions, diplomatic missions, exporters, plantation companies, brokers, buyers and international development partners to discuss the future of one of the country’s most significant export sectors.
CTTA Chairman Lushantha de Silva was unanimously re elected for a second consecutive term, reflecting the confidence placed in his leadership. In his address, de Silva highlighted the Association’s 132 year legacy of promoting governance, transparency and integrity within the tea trade while emphasising the need for greater value addition, premium branding, innovation and product diversification to strengthen Ceylon Tea’s position in global markets.
The AGM was attended by International Monetary Fund Resident Representative Dr Martha Tesfaye Woldemichael as Chief Guest, Sri Lanka Tea Board Chairman Raaj (R.K.) Obeysekere as Guest of Honour and Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer Shiran Fernando, who delivered the Guest Address.
Dr Woldemichael praised Sri Lanka’s tea industry as a global ambassador for the country and acknowledged its contribution to economic recovery. While noting improvements in inflation, foreign reserves and public debt management, she cautioned that geopolitical tensions and disruptions to global shipping continue to pose risks for export oriented industries.
A key highlight of the AGM was the announcement of the new leadership team, with Mansoor Akbarally appointed Vice Chairman representing buyers and Senaka Alawattegama appointed Vice Chairman representing sellers. The Association also honoured Paani Dias, Lalith Obeyesekere and Sanjaya Herath with Honorary Membership in recognition of their exceptional contributions to Sri Lanka’s tea industry.
As the CTTA enters its 133rd year, the Association pledged to work closely with government and industry stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the Colombo Tea Auction, expand value added exports and reinforce the global reputation of the iconic Ceylon Tea brand.
