Sri Lanka, Sept. 14 -- The Tea Exporters Association (TEA) held its 27th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Grand Marquee, Taj Samudra Hotel, bringing together stakeholders, government officials and industry leaders under the theme "Navigating Challenges."

The AGM confirmed the re-appointing of Huzefa Akbarally as Chairman for 2026/2027.

Chairman Huzefa Akbarally said: "This has been a particularly challenging year for the tea industry, with the current global conflicts and geopolitical tensions, Cyclone Ditwa, abolishment of SVAT, reduction in tea production, and issues related to quality. In total, about 85% of Ceylon Tea shipping routes have been disrupted, many having to go around the Cape of Good Hope. Freight rates have increased...