Celebrating the World's Favourite Cup
From ancient legends to a billion daily rituals — the story of tea
Every year on the 21st of May, the world pauses to honour one of humanity’s most beloved beverages — tea. Declared by the United Nations in 2019 and officially observed from 2020, World Tea Day celebrates the cultural heritage, economic importance, and profound health benefits of tea, while also shining a light on the lives of the millions of farmers and workers who nurture every leaf from bud to brew.
A History Steeped in Legend
The story of tea begins in China, around 2737 BC — or so legend tells us. Emperor Shen Nong, resting beneath a wild tree, discovered that a few fallen leaves had drifted into his boiling water, releasing a golden, fragrant brew. Enchanted by its taste, he declared it a gift worthy of emperors.
For centuries tea remained China’s prized secret. By the 7th century AD it had spread across East Asia, and by the 16th century Portuguese and Dutch traders were carrying it to the West. Britain’s passion for tea transformed trade routes, drove the age of the clipper ships, and even sparked revolution — the 1773 Boston Tea Party, a defining moment in American history, was born from a dispute over a tax on tea leaves.
When the British turned to their colonies in the 19th century to meet growing demand, the highlands of Ceylon — present-day Sri Lanka — were about to step onto the world stage.
Tea in the World Today
Tea is the second most consumed beverage on the planet, surpassed only by water. It crosses every border — from the spiced chai of India to the delicate matcha ceremonies of Japan, the mint-laced glasses of Morocco to the builder’s brew of Britain.
Green tea leads in volume across Asia, while black tea dominates in South Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Herbal infusions and speciality teas — oolong, white, and pu-erh — are growing rapidly as health-conscious consumers seek variety and wellness benefits.
Beyond pleasure, tea is a livelihood. The global tea industry supports the livelihoods of over 13 million people — farmers, pluckers, packers, and traders — most of them in developing nations. World Tea Day calls on governments and businesses alike to ensure fair wages and sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.
Ceylon Tea — The World’s Finest
In 1867, a Scottish planter named James Taylor planted the first commercial tea bushes in Loolecondera, Kandy. He could not have known that this small experiment would eventually make Sri Lanka one of the world’s most celebrated tea-producing nations.
Ceylon tea is grown across several distinct regions — Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Uva, Kandy, Sabaragamuwa, and Ruhuna — each shaped by altitude, rainfall, and wind, producing teas of unique character. The high-grown teas of Nuwara Eliya are delicate and floral; the Uva teas carry a bright, brisk astringency prized by connoisseurs; while the lowland Ruhuna teas offer a rich, full-bodied warmth.
Recognised globally by the iconic Lion Logo, Ceylon tea is a guarantee of origin and quality. Sri Lanka is consistently among the world’s top four tea exporters, and Ceylon tea reaches over 150 countries, brewed in palaces and homes alike. It is not simply a product — it is a national pride, a story told in every cup.
Happy World Tea Day
May every cup you raise today carry warmth, connection, and a quiet moment of joy.
From the mist-covered hills of Ceylon to your table, we are grateful to share this journey with you. Here’s to the farmers who tend the leaves, the makers who craft each blend, and to you — for choosing to make tea a part of your life.
Raise your cup. The world is celebrating with you.