• SLTB seeks global recognition for Ceylon Tea
• GI certification aims to elevate Ceylon Tea’s international reputation
• French-backed initiative promises new global opportunities for SL tea
• Application submitted in Sept.; awaiting approval 

Following years of deliberation, the Sri Lanka Tea Board (SLTB) has submitted an application to obtain the Geographical Indication (GI) certification for Ceylon Tea.

Speaking to The Sunday Morning Business, SLTB Chairman Rajpal Obeyesekere revealed that with the assistance of the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), the SLTB had in September submitted its application to obtain GI certification for Ceylon Tea. 

He further clarified that the entire process had been funded by the French Development Agency (AFD).

Obeyesekere stated: “We submitted our application for GI certification sometime around September. After sending it to many stakeholders, we have finally submitted it. It was funded by the AFD and we are awaiting final approval.”

He further stated that he was optimistic that Sri Lanka would receive a positive response with regard to its application to obtain GI certification for Ceylon Tea. However, he added that it was too early to comment on a timeline for obtaining the GI certification.

“We want to do something for Sri Lanka and to ensure the Sri Lankan tea is identified internationally with GI. Hopefully we will get approval soon,” he added.

The initiative taken by the SLTB to obtain GI certification for Ceylon Tea commenced with the tripartite agreement the board entered into with the AFD and CIRAD worth € 1 million for the development of a GI for Ceylon Tea. 

The agreement, signed in December 2021, provided a € 1 million grant valid for four years and involved the provision of technical assistance from CIRAD to establish GI and the relevant certification systems for Ceylon Tea.

GI certification serves to uphold and authenticate the quality, reputation, and characteristics of a product by linking it to a specific territory through intellectual property protection, while also giving it added value in national and international markets.