Gotabhaya aims to generate USD 10 billion from tea industry

Presidential hopeful Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (Nov 12) said he aims to generate annual revenue of USD 10 billion through tea exports.

“We will ensure that only high quality Ceylon Tea is exported,” the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) candidate told a rally in Minuwangoda.

He explained that his government would develop the plantation and agriculture sectors to generate foreign income and increase employment opportunities.

“We will introduce farmers to new technology to assist them in the management of water and fertiliser,” Rajapaksa added.

As a part of this strategy, he said that the rubber industry would be uplifted along with the coconut, chill, and cinnamon industries which have a huge demand in the global market.

The candidate focused on strengthening the IT and education sector, to achieve what he said was a “knowledge-based economy”.

“A student-centric education system will replace the existing exam-centric model,” he said adding that the youth would be given increased opportunities to pursue higher studies.

Among other educational plans, he said was to provide more learning opportunities for nurses.

“Nursing colleges must be transformed into degree providing institutions. Only then they can seek foreign employment,” Rajapaksa told supporters.

He promised to implement his entire manifesto during his five-year rule if voted into power at the November 16 polls.