Tourism, tea and sports can take Lanka forward

Charumini de Silva

During the post war scenario the trilogy of tourism, tea and sports can play a key role in promoting the country, HVA Lanka Exporters Chairman Rohan Fernando told Daily News Business. “Sri Lanka can be the miracle of Asia, which is a correct initiative that the Government has taken and it is important to convince this concept to the people,” he said.

Rohan Fernando

He said Sri Lanka will target to reach US $ 1.3 billion this year from tea exports. The country contributes 290 to 300 million kilograms per annum which is around 18 percent of the total world tea export volume.

The Government has the support from all industrialists and exporters to uplift the country’s economy. However, it is important that the Government should maintain a close relationship with industrialists and exporters to provide confidence in the industry and ensure the momentum.

“Sri Lanka teas are the highest selling amongst all origins and about one US $/kg more than the other highest teas from Kenya.

Despite the hardships that the country went through the tea industry was the only industry that sustained amidst all obstacles. “The industry should be more conscious about market sensitivity on demand, supply and consumption. Therefore it is necessary that the industry must have a fund or a stock to face any fluctuation in the market as they are temporary,” he said.

There is potential for tea industrialists in the global arena rather than competing in the domestic market. HVA has over 100 variations of high quality tea that caters to all flavours and health factors in many countries.

HVA plans to invest around Rs 100 million to upgrade the tea extraction plant to a high end commercial venture and also upgrade the tea packaging factory with modern and latest technology machinery.

Fernando said their aim is to go global in real terms and strengthen the company by mobilizing it in every tea producing and consumption country and get it listed in their stock markets.