February's tea output rockets in Sri Lanka
Figures for the month of February indicate that Sri Lanka's tea production rose by a whopping 68 percent. The country produced 23 million kilograms of tea in 2010, compared to 13 million in the corresponding month last year. This performance is attributed to correct application of fertilizer, improved weather conditions and a stable labor force. However, these numbers need to be put in perspective, as last year's figures were negatively affected by adverse weather conditions, which saw output sink by 44% in contrast to 2008. The Tea Board also noted a growing demand for low grown tea from the Middle East and Russia.