Speaking in behalf of the government, Chief Government Whip, Minister Gayantha Karunathileke said Sri Lanka’s tea trade has been hampered due to the exportation of dust tea in response to a call from the members of parliament yesterday (18) for the government to seriously consider the plight of the tea industry.
He said, "We are faced with a serious Challenge. Sri Lanka's reputation in the international market is hampered. Various ingredients are mixed with locally produced tea and exported. Discussions have been held on this issue for a long period of time. We are not content with the legal aspect in which raids are being carried out. Investigations also should be carried out about the conduct of our authorities."
Minister Karunathileke further said the government will support the small scale tea estate owners and fertiliser subsidy will be provided for them.
UPFA Kalutara District MP Jayantha Samaraweera said the government should formulate a plan to promote locally manufacture tea in the international market.
He said, "We have to look into the quality of our tea. Why has the cultivation reduced. The problem of dust tea need to be addressed. Our reputation is at stake. We need to carry out promotion activities"
