“A Brew of Legacy and Excellence: Tracing the Evolution of Ceylon Tea“

Ceylon Tea, with its rich heritage and exquisite flavor, holds a prominent place in Sri Lanka’s cultural and economic landscape. The story of Ceylon Tea dates back to 1852 when James Taylor, a visionary planter, embarked on a mission that would shape the nation’s destiny. Over the years, through innovation, dedication, and a touch of enchantment, Ceylon Tea has become synonymous with excellence. Join us on an immersive journey as we explore the captivating history of Ceylon Tea, from its humble beginnings in the Loolecondera Estate to its position as Sri Lanka’s largest export industry.

The Arrival of James Taylor:
In 1852, a visionary named James Taylor arrived in Ceylon, seeking to unlock the potential of tea cultivation. Settling at the Loolecondera Estate in Galaha, he embarked on a 19-acre tea plantation, laying the foundation for a remarkable journey.

Birth of the Tea Industry:

In 1867, James Taylor commenced the plantation of tea on the Loolecondera Estate. Five years later, in 1872, a fully equipped tea factory began operating on the estate, marking the birth of the Ceylon tea industry.

International Debut:

Ceylon Tea made its international debut in 1873 when twenty-three pounds of tea produced by James Taylor reached London. This momentous event sparked global interest and set the stage for Ceylon tea’s ascent.

Rapid Expansion:

During the 1880s, tea production in Sri Lanka experienced exponential growth. Planters from all over the hill country flocked to Loolecondera to learn the art of tea cultivation. By the late 1880s, almost all coffee plantations had transitioned to tea due to its superior profitability.

Technological Advancements:

Technological advancements played a crucial role in the commercial viability of tea production. Innovations such as the Sirocco tea dryer in 1877 and the tea-rolling machine in 1880 revolutionized the industry, making large-scale production feasible.

The Emergence of Tea Auctions:

In 1883, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the significance of the tea industry, backed the first public Colombo tea auction, held on the property of Somerville & Co. This marked the beginning of a tradition that would shape the tea trade.

Centralization of Production:

In 1884, the construction of the Central Tea Factory on the Fairyland Estate (Pedro) in Nuwara Eliya brought further momentum to the industry, streamlining production and ensuring consistent quality.

Recognition at the London Auctions:

The year 1891 witnessed a remarkable milestone when Ceylon Tea was sold at the London tea auctions for an astonishing price of LKR 36.15 per pound. This acknowledgment solidified Ceylon tea’s reputation for exceptional quality.

Associations and Expansion:

The late 19th century witnessed the establishment of key associations, such as the Colombo Tea Traders Association in 1894 and the Colombo Tea Brokers’ Association in 1896. Additionally, tea cultivation expanded rapidly, with nearly 400,000 acres of land dedicated to tea by 1899.

Pioneers and Innovations:

The tea industry mourned the loss of James Taylor in 1892, but his legacy continued to shape the industry. In 1915, Thomas Amarasuriya became the first Sri Lankan Chairman of the Planters’ Association, solidifying local influence. Furthermore, the Tea Research Institute, founded in 1925, focused on improving production techniques and maximizing yields.

International Collaboration:

Ceylon’s growing prominence in the global tea market led to its founding membership in the International Tea Market Expansion Board (ITMEB) in 1935. This marked a significant milestone, highlighting the country’s role in shaping the tea trade.

Taming the Tea Tortrix Caterpillar:

In 1940, the Tea Research Institute achieved a significant breakthrough by gaining control over the leaf-eating Tea Tortrix Caterpillar. This development ensured the protection of tea crops, safeguarding the industry’s future.

Pioneering Brokerage Firm:

In 1941, M/s Pieris & Abeywardena emerged as the first Ceylonese Tea brokerage firm, fostering local expertise and nurturing the growth of the industry.

Unifying the Estates:

The establishment of the Ceylon Estate Employers’ Federation in 1944 brought together tea estate owners, promoting collaboration and further enhancing the industry’s stability.

Export Duty and Clonal Tea Cultivation:

In 1951, the imposition of Export Duty on tea reinforced the economic significance of Ceylon tea. The same year witnessed the initiation of clonal tea fields, a pioneering method of breeding superior tea strains.

State Plantations Corporation:

The formation of the State Plantations Corporation in 1958 marked a significant milestone, as it streamlined the management of state-owned tea estates, ensuring efficient production and growth.

International Recognition:

Sri Lanka soared to new heights in 1965, becoming the world’s largest exporter of tea. This milestone solidified Ceylon tea’s reputation for exceptional quality and market dominance.

Celebrating a Century:

To commemorate 100 years of Ceylon tea, the first International Tea Convention was held in 1966, honoring the legacy of this beloved beverage and fostering global collaboration.

Nationalization and Expansion:

The nationalization of privately held tea estates by the Sri Lankan government in 1971-72 redefined the industry’s landscape, promoting equitable distribution and socio-economic development. The establishment of key organizations such as the Sri Lanka Tea Board, the Janatha Estate Development Board, and the Tea Small Holding Development Authority in 1976 further fueled growth and expansion.

Innovations and Diversification:

Ceylon tea continued to evolve in the following decades. The introduction of the CTC (Crush, tear and curl) tea processing method in 1983 revolutionized tea production, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency. Additionally, the production and export of green tea began in 1982, diversifying the range of tea offerings.

Milestones and Quality Assurance:

The 125th anniversary of Ceylon tea in 1992 witnessed the formation of the Tea Research Board, ensuring continuous innovation and adherence to stringent quality standards. The abolition of export duties and Ad Valorem Taxes further bolstered the industry’s progress.

Global Recognition and Sustainability:

Sri Lanka’s tea industry reached new heights in the 21st century. The globally trademarked Lion Logo in 1999 became a symbol of 100% Pure Ceylon Tea, guaranteeing authenticity and quality. Sri Lanka’s achievement as the first Ozone-friendly tea producer highlighted its commitment to sustainability.

A Legacy of Excellence:

As we approach 2023, Ceylon tea stands tall as a testament to generations of hard work and dedication. With a Tea Museum, Geographical Indications certification, and a billion-dollar export revenue milestone, the industry continues to thrive, delighting tea enthusiasts around the world.

From the pioneering efforts of James Taylor to the establishment of robust institutions and the continuous pursuit of excellence, the history of Ceylon Tea is one of resilience, innovation, and global success. Spanning over a century, this captivating journey has transformed Sri Lanka into an iconic tea destination, captivating tea lovers worldwide. As we step into the future, the legacy of Ceylon Tea continues to thrive, rooted in its rich history and the unwavering passion of those who cultivate and nurture this remarkable beverage.