News Today: Sri Lanka government Rs.200 million tea fertilizer subsidy 2025 with QR code system

The Government of Sri Lanka has announced a fertilizer subsidy worth Rs.200 million for tea cultivation, aiming to strengthen the plantation sector and support thousands of small-scale farmers who contribute significantly to the country’s tea industry.

Plantation and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyarathna made the announcement in Parliament, highlighting that plans are already underway to roll out the subsidy program. He explained that this move will not only support sustainable tea cultivation but also provide relief to farmers facing rising production costs.

Responding to a question raised by National People’s Power (NPP) MP Ajantha Gammedage, the Minister confirmed that a QR code system will be introduced during the subsidy distribution process. This innovative approach is designed to eliminate irregularities and ensure that subsidies are distributed transparently and efficiently to genuine tea cultivators.

Cabinet approval has already been granted for the QR code initiative, and the first phase of the program will be launched on September 26, 2025, in the Mathugama area of Kalutara District. This new system will enable farmers to access fertilizer subsidies through multiple registered fertilizer companies under the Fertiliser Secretariat, in addition to the government’s direct subsidy program.

Minister Vidyarathna further revealed that the Sri Lanka Tea Board has allocated Rs.2,000 million for tea fertilizer subsidies in 2025. The majority of this support—around 75 percent—will directly benefit smallholder tea estate owners who form the backbone of the nation’s tea sector.

This subsidy program reflects the government’s commitment to revitalizing the tea industry, safeguarding farmer livelihoods, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Sri Lanka’s globally renowned tea production.