Akbar, first COVID-19 Controlled Environment Tea Company globally

Sri Lanka’s premier tea exporter Akbar Brothers has been awarded by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) as the first tea company in the world to be awarded the COVID-19 Control Environment Certification. 

Under the Akbar brand umbrella, the company offers a comprehensive product range: traditional black and green tea in packs and tea-bags, together with flavoured & herbal teas and a variety of different packaging options that reaches over 200 companies globally. "We are proud to announce that we have COVID-19 controlled environment status." said the Group Chief Operating Officer, Janek Jayasekara, in a company media release. 
"Technically called COVID -19 Safety Management System Certification, an idea mooted by Rotary was carried forward by SLSI and now we are in the process of being globally accredited and sponsored by Rotary. I thank this esteemed organisation in partnering with SLSI to make Sri Lanka safe and support the national agenda for a V shape economic recovery," said the Director General/ CEO of SLSI, Dr. Siddhika Senaratne. 
"I am pleased to say that the certification practically helped Akbar Brothers align the three production entities to the new norms," said COO Mr. Jayasekara. "The certification also gives confidence for us to operate at the optimum level of efficiency practicing the proper protocols of Social distancing, handwashing and wearing a mask," he said.