Top 30 Tea Brands in Sri Lanka (2026)
In 2026, the landscape of Sri Lankan tea brands has evolved beyond simple exports into a sophisticated blend of heritage, high-tech sustainability, and wellness-driven innovation. For those seeking the best Ceylon tea brands, the focus is now on “Climate Positive” labels and estate-specific flavor profiles.
Below is an expanded look at the top most popular 30 tea brands in Sri Lanka, featuring new insights into their specialties and market leadership.
1. Dilmah
As the world’s first producer-owned tea brand, Dilmah Tea is the definitive face of modern Ceylon tea, founded in 1985 by the late Merrill J. Fernando on a mission to bring “single-origin” quality back to the industry. Unlike multinational brands that blend teas from various countries to reduce costs, Dilmah remains committed to 100% pure Ceylon tea, picked, perfected, and packed right at the source in Sri Lanka to preserve its natural antioxidants and unique terroir. In 2026, Dilmah continues to lead the market through its “Stronger Together” sustainability strategy, ensuring that at least 10% of its global earnings fund the humanitarian and environmental work of the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation. Whether through their luxury Watte series, which explores altitude-specific flavors, or their innovative Elixir of Ceylon Tea concentrates, Dilmah remains a global pioneer in tea gastronomy and ethical business practices.
2. Akbar
As the world’s largest exporter of Ceylon tea for over three decades, Akbar Tea is a titan of the industry, brewing over 75 million cups daily across more than 80 countries. Their operations are centered on a state-of-the-art facility in Sri Lanka that utilizes advanced automated machinery to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and quality. Known for their “Akbar Gold” and “Akbar Premium” ranges, the brand excels in delivering a consistent, full-bodied flavor profile that has become a staple in markets ranging from the Middle East to the CIS regions. By maintaining a rigorous selection process overseen by master tea tasters, Akbar Tea preserves the heritage of traditional Ceylon tea while meeting the high-volume demands of a global audience.
3. Ahmad
Ahmad Tea is a globally recognized hallmark of quality in the Ceylon tea industry, seamlessly blending British tea traditions with the unparalleled expertise of Sri Lankan production. Headquartered in London but with a massive operational heart in Colombo, the brand is celebrated for its uncompromising commitment to the “purest cup of tea.” Their Sri Lankan facility serves as a vital hub for sourcing the finest leaves from the island’s premier estates, ensuring that every blend—from their world-famous Earl Grey to their robust English Breakfast—maintains a consistent, high-grade flavor profile. In 2026, Ahmad Tea continues to lead the market through innovative sustainability initiatives and a diverse product range that includes premium loose-leaf tins, wellness infusions, and modern cold-brew formats, solidifying its reputation as one of the best Ceylon tea brands for both daily enjoyment and luxury gifting.
4. Basilur
Basilur Tea has redefined the global perception of Ceylon tea by blending premium quality with artistic innovation. Known as a world leader in luxury tea giftware, the brand is celebrated for its exquisite packaging, which includes ornate metal tins, “tea books,” and musical boxes that make their products as much a collector’s item as a beverage. Beyond the aesthetics, Basilur prides itself on sourcing the finest leaves directly from the lush tea gardens of Sri Lanka, ensuring that every cup reflects the island’s rich heritage. Basilur brand continues to lead the market with its diverse range of fruit-infused blends, herbal infusions, and specialty cold brews, all while maintaining a commitment to freshness and sustainable production.
5. Talawakelle
Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC stands as a titan of the Sri Lankan tea industry, consistently recognized as one of the premier producers of high-quality Sri Lanka tea brands. Managing 16 prestigious estates across the Dimbula and Nuwara Eliya regions—including world-renowned marks like Mattakelle and Great Western—the company is celebrated for its “high-grown” teas that offer a distinctively bright, brisk, and aromatic liquor. Talawakelle continues to lead the sector through its “Food Factory” concept, ensuring that every batch meets the highest global food safety and ethical standards. As a pioneer in sustainability, they have integrated comprehensive ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks into their production.
6. Bogawantalawa
Nestled in the heart of the legendary “Golden Valley of Ceylon,” Bogawantalawa Tea Estates stands as a global pioneer in ethical and sustainable tea production. Renowned for its unique terroir that produces a distinctively aromatic and well-rounded liquor, the brand made history by becoming the world’s first tea company to offer uncompensated Climate Positive teas, going well beyond carbon neutrality. Bogawantalawa tea brand has continued to lead the industry through a holistic approach that integrates organic farming, water stewardship, and social forestry across its sprawling high-grown estates like Norwood and Tientsin. For connoisseurs seeking a “garden-to-cup” experience that prioritizes both planet and palate, Bogawantalawa represents the pinnacle of modern Sri Lankan tea craftsmanship.
7. Battler
Battler Tea, a flagship brand of Maltras International, is globally recognized as a premier representative of authentic Sri Lanka tea brands. Sourced exclusively from the island’s legendary gardens, the brand is celebrated for its “art of premium tea,” combining generations of tradition with meticulous modern craftsmanship. Battler Tea distinguishes itself through its iconic packaging, such as the “Elephas Maximus” and “Golden Elephant” tin caddie,s which house high-grade orthodox leaves like OP1, OPA, and FBOP. Trusted in over 50 countries, the brand focuses on sustainable luxury and unique flavor profiles, ranging from robust black teas to delicate herbal infusions and exotic fruit blends. By maintaining rigorous hygienic standards and eco-friendly practices, it has secured its place among the best tea brands for connoisseurs seeking an uncompromising, garden-to-cup experience.
8. Mlesna
Mlesna Tea, established in 1983, has solidified its reputation as a premier connoisseur of high-quality Ceylon tea, distinguished by its commitment to artistic packaging and superior blending. As one of the most recognizable tea brands in Sri Lanka, Mlesna offers an expansive portfolio of over 3,000 products, ranging from classic regional black teas to exotic fruit-infused varieties like Soursop and Victorian Blend. With a global footprint spanning more than 50 countries, the brand is celebrated for its “Tea Fortresses” and luxury gift collections, often featuring gold-plated tins, porcelain jars, and hand-crafted wooden boxes. By maintaining rigorous quality standards and sourcing from the island’s finest estates.
9. George Steuart
Established in 1835, George Steuart Teas holds the prestigious title of being the oldest mercantile establishment in Sri Lanka and one of the most storied Ceylon tea brands in existence. With nearly two centuries of expertise, the company has evolved from a traditional coffee and tea exporter into a modern global leader in tea innovation. Operating from their state-of-the-art processing facility, they offer a vast portfolio that includes classic black teas, delicate green teas, and a contemporary range of herbal infusions and wellness blends. As a staple among the best Lankan tea brands, George Steuart Teas is celebrated for its commitment to “Pure Ceylon Tea” and its ability to blend heritage with new consumer trends, such as eco-friendly packaging and functional tea ranges. For those looking to explore the authentic history of the island’s tea industry, George Steuart remains an essential name.
10. Mackwoods Tea
Mackwoods Tea stands as a monumental pillar among tea brands, boasting a storied heritage that dates back to 1841. As one of the oldest and most prestigious names in the industry, Mackwoods has become synonymous with the “fine wine” of teas, particularly through its association with the iconic Labookellie estate in the misty central highlands of Nuwara Eliya. They are offering a range that captures the distinctively light, golden liquor and delicate floral notes unique to high-grown elevations. Beyond its classic black teas, Mackwoods has expanded its portfolio to include exquisite green teas and artisanal infusions, all while maintaining a commitment to traditional orthodox processing methods that have been perfected over nearly two centuries.
11. Empire Teas
Empire Teas, a premier exporter of Ceylon tea since 2000, has solidified its position as one of the top five tea exporters in Sri Lanka. Operating out of a state-of-the-art facility in Colombo, the company is the force behind the globally recognized Hyson and Thurson brands, reaching consumers in over 80 countries. Their product portfolio is exceptionally diverse, ranging from traditional orthodox black teas to innovative fruit-infused blends and specialty green teas. Driven by a commitment to excellence and sustainability, Empire Teas holds numerous international certifications, including USDA Organic, Fairtrade, and Rainforest Alliance, ensuring that every cup meets the highest global standards for quality and ethical sourcing.
12. Anverally & Sons
Anverally & Sons, the powerhouse behind the globally recognized Anverally Teas, stands as one of the most prolific and innovative exporters in the Sri Lankan tea industry. With a heritage dating back to 1890, the company has masterfully bridged the gap between traditional Ceylon craftsmanship and modern production technology. Known for their diverse portfolio, including the Sultan, Al-Otuor, and Anverally Tea brands, they specialize in full-bodied “Low-Grown” teas that are highly prized in the Middle East, CIS, and African markets for their strength and aromatic depth. In 2026, Anverally continues to lead the sector by focusing on value-added exports, offering everything from exquisite bulk blends to sophisticated pyramid tea bags and ready-to-drink options.
13. Stassen Tea
Stassen Tea holds a prestigious position among Sri Lankan tea brands as a pioneer in sustainable and ethical cultivation. Established in 1977, the company made history by producing the world’s first internationally certified organic tea, setting a global benchmark for purity and environmental stewardship. Operating its own sprawling plantations across diverse agro-climatic regions, Stassen ensures a “bush-to-cup” journey that maintains the highest quality standards. Their extensive portfolio, which includes everything from robust black teas and delicate green teas to innovative herbal infusions, has made them a staple in over 80 countries.
14. Mabroc Teas
Mabroc Teas, a proud member of the Hayleys Group, stands as a premier name among tea brands in Sri Lanka, distinguished by its vast supply chain and commitment to ethical sourcing. Drawing from 48 pristine tea estates across the island’s most celebrated agro-climatic regions, from the misty heights of Nuwara Eliya to the lush lowlands of Ruhuna, Mabroc offers an unparalleled variety of authentic tea brands. In 2026, the brand has solidified its reputation for sustainability and “garden-to-cup” transparency, ensuring every leaf is traceable and produced under fair labor practices. Whether it is their specialized “Single Origin” collections or their innovative wellness infusions, Mabroc consistently delivers rich, diverse flavor profiles.
15. Jaf Tea
Jaf Tea, the flagship brand of Jafferjee Brothers, is a distinguished name among the tea brands, celebrated for its unwavering commitment to single-origin purity and artisanal quality. Unlike many mass-market labels, Jaf Tea focuses on “Single Region” teas, ensuring that the unique characteristics of Sri Lanka’s distinct tea-growing districts, such as the floral notes of Nuwara Eliya or the malty strength of Ruhuna, are preserved without being diluted by generic blends. They lead the premium sector with its elegant packaging and a vast portfolio that includes classic black teas, rare white teas, and innovative fruit infusions. By sourcing directly from the finest estates and maintaining rigorous quality control at their state-of-the-art facilities, Jaf Tea offers a true connoisseur’s experience that honors the heritage of pure Ceylon tea.
16. Uniworld Teas
Uniworld Teas has established itself as a premier force in the tea manufacturing sector, consistently as one of the top five largest exporters of tea from the island. Operating out of a sophisticated, state-of-the-art facility in Colombo, the company specializes in both bulk and value-added tea products, catering to a vast global network that spans over 30 countries. Their portfolio highlights a deep commitment to variety and quality, offering everything from traditional black and green teas to custom specialty blends packaged under their own labels or as private-label solutions. By combining decades of blending expertise with rigorous quality control standards, Uniworld Teas ensures that the authentic character of Ceylon tea reaches international markets with unparalleled freshness and consistency. Buy Uniworld tea from Teakruthi.
17. Zylanica
Zylanica Tea, the premier brand of Ceylon Fresh Teas (Pvt) Ltd, is globally recognized for its dedication to the “Pure Ceylon Tea” tradition, offering a diverse range of products that cater to the most discerning palates. Operating with a philosophy that emphasizes freshness and authenticity, Zylanica sources its leaves from the finest tea gardens across Sri Lanka’s seven agro-climatic regions, ensuring each blend captures a distinct regional character. This brand has become a favorite among international collectors for its sophisticated “Petals” and “Exotic” collections, which combine high-quality leaf grades with elegant, shelf-ready packaging. By maintaining rigorous quality control standards and the prestigious Lion Logo of purity, Zylanica continues to bridge the gap between traditional tea heritage and modern luxury retail.
18. Lions Tea
Lions Tea is celebrated for its deep-rooted heritage and commitment to the “Pure Ceylon” tradition. Managed by the many-generational expertise of the Lions Group, the brand excels in producing robust, full-bodied teas primarily sourced from the fertile low-grown regions of Sri Lanka, such as Sabaragamuwa and Ruhuna. Lions Tea continues to stand out for its exceptional “leafy” grades, offering a rich, malty liquor that is highly prized in the Middle Eastern and CIS markets. Their focus on maintaining the highest quality standards, from meticulous hand-plucking to advanced orthodox manufacturing, ensures that every pack delivers the authentic strength and aroma that tea connoisseurs expect from tea companies in Sri Lanka.
19. New Vithanakande
New Vithanakande Tea is widely celebrated as a boutique powerhouse among Sri Lankan tea exporters, consistently shattering records at the Colombo Tea Auctions for its exceptional quality. Nestled in the lush Delwala hills of the Ratnapura district, this estate is world-renowned for its “Low-Grown” teas, which are characterized by their exquisite “tippy” appearance, deep mahogany liquor, and unique honey-like aroma. Unlike mass-market brands, New Vithanakande focuses on artisanal precision, utilizing traditional orthodox manufacturing methods to produce some of the best brands available for the luxury market. Its signature FBOPEXSP (Flower Broken Orange Pekoe Extra Special) grade is a favorite among connoisseurs in the Middle East and Europe, who prize the brand for its velvety smoothness and sophisticated flavor profile that embodies the rich biodiversity of the Sabaragamuwa region.
20. Heladiv
Heladiv, the flagship brand of HVA Foods PLC, is a trailblazer among Sri Lankan tea companies, recognized for its bold fusion of tradition and modern innovation. Since its inception, the brand has distinguished itself by going beyond traditional loose leaf tea, pioneering a diverse range of value-added products including iced tea concentrates, tea-based cosmetics, and functional wellness infusions. Heladiv continues to set the standard for its brands by emphasizing its “ISO 22000” certified manufacturing processes and eco-friendly packaging initiatives. Whether it is their classic “Golden Leaf” collection or their trendy RTD (Ready-To-Drink) beverages, Heladiv remains a global favorite, exporting the rich, authentic spirit of Ceylon to over 40 countries while maintaining a firm commitment to sustainable plantation practices and ethical sourcing.
21. Impra Tea
Impra Tea, a flagship brand of Imperial Teas Group, is globally recognized as one of the most versatile and high quality brand reaching consumers in over 60 countries. Renowned for its consistency and “Pure Ceylon” integrity, Impra specializes in providing a diverse range of products that cater to both traditionalists and modern tea drinkers, from robust Royal Elixir black teas to delicate green tea and fruit-infused collections. They continue to stand out for their state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and commitment to sustainability, ensuring that every leaf is processed with minimal environmental impact. By blending decades of heritage with contemporary flavor profiles, Impra Tea remains a top choice for those seeking the authentic, brisk character of premium Sri Lankan tea at an accessible price point.
22. Qualitea
Qualitea is a globally recognized name among Ceylon tea brands, distinguished by its commitment to the “Pure Ceylon” promise and its sophisticated approach to modern tea consumption. Operating from a high-tech facility in Colombo, Qualitea specializes in catering to the discerning tastes of the Mediterranean, CIS, and European markets, where it is celebrated for its exceptional leaf grades and aromatic blends. The brand continues to excel by offering a diverse range of products, from traditional high-grown black teas and delicate green teas to vibrant fruit and herbal infusions. By maintaining rigorous quality control standards and utilizing innovative packaging, Qualitea ensures that the distinctive freshness and character of the island’s finest estates are delivered to tea lovers worldwide.
23. Tarlton
Tarlton Tea, a premier brand under the Venture Tea umbrella, is globally recognized for its vibrant innovation and dedication to quality in the Sri Lankan tea sector. Specializing in high-quality “Pure Ceylon” tea, Tarlton has carved a niche for itself by combining traditional orthodox manufacturing with modern, eye-catching packaging that appeals to the lifestyle consumers of 2026. Their extensive collection spans from classic regional black and green teas to an inventive array of fruit-infused blends and herbal wellness infusions, often presented in their signature round tea bags or decorative gift tins. By sourcing leaves from the island’s most prestigious tea gardens and maintaining rigorous quality control standards, Tarlton Tea ensures a fresh, aromatic experience to offer to the international market.
24. Heritage Tea
Heritage Tea, a key pillar of the Heritage Group, has carved a niche as a premium purveyor by focusing on the “Art of Tea” through meticulous selection and artisanal blending. With a heritage rooted in deep industry expertise, the brand specializes in sourcing high-quality leaves from the island’s finest estates to create a diverse portfolio that includes traditional black teas, vibrant greens, and exotic flavored infusions. Heritage Tea is particularly recognized among the best tea exporters for its commitment to value-added exports, ensuring that every pack meets international standards while preserving the authentic, rich aroma of Pure Ceylon Tea. Their dedication to quality control and elegant packaging makes them a preferred choice for both global connoisseurs and the luxury gifting market.
25. Zesta
Zesta Tea, the premium flagship brand of Watawala Tea Ceylon, is widely recognized as a leader in the tea sector for its unwavering commitment to “extra strong” quality and freshness. Sourced from some of the finest high-grown estates in the country—such as the renowned Kenilworth and Adisham plantations, Zesta has mastered the art of the perfect blend, particularly its signature BOPF (Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings), which is prized for its rich color and brisk, robust flavor. Zesta continues to bridge the gap between traditional heritage and modern convenience, offering a diverse range that includes exquisite single-estate tins, wellness-focused infusions, and everyday tea bags. By maintaining a direct “garden-to-cup” supply chain, Zesta ensures that tea drinkers experience the authentic, unadulterated character of pure Ceylon tea in every steep.
26. Halpe Tea
Halpe Tea, the premier brand of the Uva Halpewatte Estates, is a distinguished name among local and world brands, celebrated for its “factory-to-cup” freshness and heritage-rich production. Situated in the breathtaking hills of Ella, the brand operates one of the largest tea factories in the Uva region, allowing it to maintain total control over the manufacturing process, from the hand-plucking of tender leaves to the final packaging. Halpe Tea continues to be recognized as one of the best tea products for those seeking the distinct “Uva character,” a unique, mellow flavor and seasonal aroma that can only be produced in this specific micro-climate. Beyond their award-winning loose-leaf teas and silvertips, the brand has become a leader in tea tourism, inviting enthusiasts to witness the authentic orthodox manufacturing methods that have made Ceylon tea world-famous.
27. Watawala Tea
Watawala Tea, a flagship brand of Watawala Tea Ceylon PLC, stands as a household name and the undisputed leader in the domestic market, holding the largest market share in the tea sector. Renowned for its consistency and “all-island” appeal, Watawala Tea is meticulously blended to suit the specific palate of tea lovers who demand strength, aroma, and a rich golden liquor in every cup. As part of Sunshine Holdings, the brand benefits from a sophisticated “garden-to-cup” supply chain, sourcing high-quality leaves from the lush central highlands to ensure freshness. Watawala continues to champion sustainability and community welfare through its extensive CSR initiatives, making it not only a top choice for a daily brew but also a brand deeply rooted in the social fabric of the island.
28. St.Clair’s
St. Clair’s Tea stands as a distinguished name among Sri Lankan tea companies, renowned for its “garden-to-cup” philosophy that ensures unparalleled freshness and traceability. Sourcing its leaves from some of the most picturesque high-grown estates in the Dimbula region, the brand specializes in producing teas with a bright, brisk character and a delicate floral aroma. St. Clair’s offers an extensive range of products, including premium orthodox leaf teas, vibrant fruit infusions, and specialized wellness blends. This brand continues to emphasize sustainable plantation management and ethical labor practices, ensuring that every tin of tea reflects the rich heritage and natural purity of the Sri Lankan highlands.
29. Hyleys
Hyleys Tea has emerged as a premier innovator, particularly recognized for its specialized focus on wellness and functional tea collections. Established in 1997, the brand has successfully bridged the gap between traditional Ceylon tea heritage and modern health trends, gaining immense popularity in North America and Europe. Hyleys remains a leader in the “Weight Loss” and “Detox” tea categories, utilizing high-quality Ceylon tea brands as a base for natural herbal infusions like Garcinia Cambogia and Goji Berry. Their commitment to purity is reflected in their “100% Natural” promise, ensuring that every bag of tea is free from artificial colors and flavors while retaining the brisk.
30. Lumbini
Lumbini Tea Valley is a multi-award-winning boutique tea producer located in the lush Ruhuna region, bordering the world-renowned Sinharaja Rainforest. Lumbini is celebrated for its “garden-to-cup” philosophy, ensuring that every leaf is hand-picked and processed within hours at their own estate. They are particularly famous for their handcrafted masterpieces, such as the “Jayachakra” and various needle teas, which have won numerous international accolades for their unique flavor profiles and aesthetic beauty. Lumbini Tea remains a global leader in sustainable tea tourism and ethical production, offering connoisseurs a rare taste of low-grown Ceylon tea characterized by its distinctively floral, honey-like sweetness and deep golden liquor.
