In a significant achievement at a time of revitalization crucial for economic growth, the Lumbini Tea Factory in Deniyaya, Sri Lanka, has achieved the world’s first group ‘regenagri’ certification in recognition of its regenerative agricultural practices, benefiting 1,515 local contract farmers.
This certification, awarded with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), emphasizes the commitment of Lumbini Tea Valley to eco-friendly and sustainable tea cultivation.
‘Regenagri’ is an international program focused on promoting sustainable agricultural practices that enhance soil health and improve the economic resilience of farming communities.
At a modest event held at the Tea Tent retail outlet in Havelock City Mall, the certification was formally presented by Control Union Inspections Ltd. Sri Lanka’s Managing Director, Roshan Ranawake, to Chaminda Jayawardhana, Managing Director of Lumbini Tea Valley.
Expressing pride in this achievement, Jayawardhana acknowledged the dedication of their contract farmers and the critical support from USAID, which made this milestone possible. He noted that the 1,515 farmers, managing nearly 937.87 hectares of tea plantations, are paid premium rates for the green tea leaves they produce, further incentivizing quality and sustainability.
Sri Lanka’s tea industry is a significant contributor to the national economy, accounting for 4% of the country’s GDP and serving as a vital source of foreign exchange.
However, the sector is challenged by fluctuating tea prices, high production costs, and the impacts of climate change. Through its CATALYZE Private Sector Development (PSD) Activity,
USAID has partnered with Lumbini Tea Valley to promote sustainable agricultural practices and fair trade, which are vital for the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s tea industry.
Justin DiVenanzo, Acting Mission Director for USAID, emphasized the importance of this partnership in addressing the pressing challenges facing Sri Lankan agriculture.
He explained that sustainable farming certification offers farmers access to higher-value niche markets, increasing their incomes and motivating other agricultural businesses to adopt similar practices.
The ‘regenagri’ certification raises the bar for sustainability in the tea industry, enhancing soil health and boosting crop productivity while supporting farmers’ livelihoods. It also creates new market opportunities and the potential for premium pricing as consumer demand grows for sustainably sourced products.
This recognition for Lumbini Tea Valley marks a significant step towards sustainable agriculture in Sri Lanka, setting an inspiring example for other tea producers and contributing positively to the agricultural sector’s future.
