Hayleys Plantations has unveiled its newest and most sophisticated tea processing facility in Kiruwanaganga, Matara, replacing an older factory that faced numerous operational challenges in recent years. Built with an investment of Rs. 780 million, the state-of-the-art factory is managed by Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC and is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance tea production standards, safety, and sustainability.
The new facility features modern equipment including high-efficiency rollers, dryers, and colour sorters, as well as specialised infrastructure such as tea transport elevators and an on-site tea tasting area. Emphasizing worker safety and environmental protection, the design incorporates advanced fire prevention systems and other safety protocols. With the ability to process 14,000 kilograms of tea daily, the factory has earned recognition as the top low-grown tea processing facility by the Colombo Tea Traders Association.
Despite facing major disruptions in recent years, such as the global pandemic, economic constraints, and environmental threats like landslides, Hayleys Plantations maintained continuous operations during the transition from the old factory. This demonstrated the company’s commitment to resilience, operational excellence, and trust among its stakeholders.
Beyond production capacity, the Kiruwanaganga factory reflects Hayleys’ strong focus on environmental and social responsibility. The facility has been built in line with international environmental standards and the Green Building Concept. It has already secured several prestigious certifications, including the Rainforest Alliance, ISO 22000:2018 for food safety, ISO 14064-1:2018 for greenhouse gas emissions, and the Ecolabel. Additionally, it supports global sustainability initiatives like the UN’s Climate Neutral Now and the Science Based Targets. It also bears the Mother & Child Friendly Seal for Responsible Businesses and recognitions for ethical trade and responsible care, with Green Building certification expected soon.
The opening ceremony was a blend of tradition and corporate pride. It featured national flag hoisting, religious blessings, and cultural performances. A commemorative plaque was unveiled by Hayleys Chairman and CEO Mohan Pandithage and Hayleys Plantations Managing Director Dr. Roshan Rajadurai. A symbolic Na tree was also planted, marking the company’s long-term dedication to the environment.
In his address, Pandithage highlighted the broader role of tea in Sri Lanka’s identity and economy, stating that the new facility represents not just technological progress, but also the empowerment of communities through job creation and sustainable development. He praised the team’s ability to adapt to challenges and maintain industry-leading standards.
Dr. Rajadurai emphasized the resilience and commitment that drove the project, noting that uninterrupted tea production was maintained even during difficult times. Regional General Manager Gimhan Jayatilake also paid tribute to the legacy of the factory and its renewed potential to drive local employment and smallholder integration into the formal tea sector
