Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi has clarified that his reference to a “Nobel Prize” instead of a “Guinness World Record” in relation to a recent tea auction in Japan was an unintentional mistake.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, the Minister highlighted that New Vithanakande Ceylon Black Tea had been recognised by the Guinness World Records as the most expensive tea ever sold, further elevating the global recognition of Sri Lankan tea.
“While commenting on this achievement, I mistakenly referred to it as a ‘Nobel Prize’ instead of a ‘Guinness Record’. I regret this error,” Handunneththi said.
He also noted that the slip had sparked misinterpretations and “misleading discussions” on social media, which he claimed were being deliberately fueled by certain opposition members.