Plantation Industries Ministry talks of boosting tea exports to Cuba

• Cuban Ambassador describes Ceylon Tea as a global brand with potential to expand export market
• Says Ceylon Tea can be easily promoted among 5 m tourists coming to Cuba
• Proposes knowledge exchange on coconut, cocoa, coffee crop cultivation

Cuban Ambassador to Sri Lanka Andre Marcelo Gonzalis Garrido called on Plantation Industries Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana yesterday. During the meeting, they discussed strengthening the economy, which has been hampered by the COVID pandemic, and boosting Sri Lanka’s exports. The Ambassador described ‘Ceylon Tea’ as a major global brand which has great potential to enhance its export market. Noting that over five million tourists visit Cuba annually, the Ambassador said the people have great acceptance for Ceylon Tea and that it has much potential to be promoted there.

Ambassador Garrido also admired the coconut cultivation industry in Sri Lanka and suggested a knowledge exchange with Cuba’s cocoa and coffee cultivation industry. He also focused on bilateral relations and the possibility of furthering them at length.

Plantation Industries Ministry Secretary Ravindra Hewawitharana and Coconut Research Institute Chairman Dr. Saranga Alahapperuma were also present at the discussion.