Business
Tea crop levels increase, but prices lower than in 2020
By Steve A. Morrell
Although tea crop levels increased at end July 2021, prices in the same period of 2020 were comparatively at higher levels, latest tea reported indicated.
Brokers’ tea market reports from Asia Siyaka, Tea Brokers, John Keels PLC, Forbes & Walker Tea Brokers, weekly tea reports said production at end July 2021 recorded positive increases of 20 percent for the comparative period, 2021 production at 187.8 million kgs, exceeded 2020 production of the same period. Production at end July last year was 156.9 million kgs.
Plantation sources who declined identification informed ‘The Island’ that these positive results were attributed to salient weather conditions at all elevations. The Western slopes, Mid growns, and low elevation wet zone areas, all recorded positive increases in production. They conceded that agricultural practices too formed significant positives contributing to these positive results.
It is on record that the small holder sector produced some 75 percent tea to enhance production. However, although such positive results were recorded, and their earnings literally doubled, they have been cautioned that leaf standards should also be maintained.
Quoting the Asia Siyaka Tea report, they said low growns are at a healthy112.6 million kgs about 22 percent above 2020 results. 2020 results were 92.3 million kgs. Similarly all elevations recorded plus variances.
John Keels Plc Tea report said Colombo was supported last week by Turkey ,Iran,, Russia, CIS countries, Libya, Iraq, and others. Prices in Colombo were at competitive levels including 27.4 thousand kilos green tea increasing green tea production to 1.3 million kilos. Additionally CTC production as well showed increases recording prices above 2020 levels.
Comparatively producing countries quoted by John Keels Plc, reported positive results except Kenya. Sri Lanka, North and South India, \Bangladesh, Malawi were countries with positive results in production. Reasons for drop in production in Kenya were not known,
Prices recorded last week were by and large influenced by the Uva quality season, recording prices from Rs. 1850, to the flowery grades selling at Rs. 2150. Per kilo. Uva selling marks recognized for their outstanding quality maintained their reputation contributing to positive market results.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”