Inayet Akbarally Passes Away – Chairman of the Akbar Brothers Group.

Inayet Akbarally: A Visionary Business Leader Who Shaped Sri Lanka’s Tea Industry

It is with profound sadness that we report the passing of Mr. Inayet Akbarally. May Allah (SWT) grant him eternal peace and bless him with Jannat al-Firdaus. (16th Feb 2025)

Mr. Inayet Akbarally, a pioneering figure in Sri Lanka’s tea industry and the esteemed Chairman of the Akbar Brothers Group. At the age of 88, Mr. Akbarally leaves behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, dedication, and visionary thinking that has left an indelible mark on Sri Lanka’s economy and the global tea trade. His death marks the end of an era for the Akbar Brothers Group, which he helped build into the powerhouse it is today.

The Early Years and Founding of Akbar Brothers

Born into a family that would become synonymous with the growth and success of Sri Lanka’s tea industry, Inayet Akbarally, alongside his late brothers, Abbas and Abid Akbarally, laid the foundation for what would become one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most respected conglomerates. Together, they co-founded Akbar Brothers in 1969, a company that would go on to revolutionize the tea business and elevate the global standing of Ceylon Tea.

The Akbar brothers recognized early on the immense potential of Sri Lanka’s tea production, and under their leadership, Akbar Brothers quickly established itself as a dominant force in the industry. The company’s pioneering spirit and commitment to excellence led to its rise as Sri Lanka’s largest tea exporter, a position it has held for over 30 years. This was no small achievement, especially in a competitive global market.

The Rise to Global Prominence

Mr. Inayet Akbarally’s leadership played a pivotal role in Akbar Brothers becoming the world’s largest exporter of tea at one point, a title it held for several years. His business acumen, strategic insights, and ability to foster strong relationships with international markets helped put Sri Lankan tea on the world map, boosting the country’s export earnings and enhancing its reputation as a producer of premium tea.

Under Mr. Akbarally’s guidance, Akbar Brothers not only expanded its export footprint but also diversified its operations. The company ventured into various other industries, including property development, healthcare, and electricity generation. This diversification ensured the group’s resilience and enabled it to thrive in different sectors, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s economic growth and development.

Mr. Akbarally’s dedication to the tea industry extended beyond just business growth. He was a passionate advocate for promoting the health benefits of Ceylon Tea and worked tirelessly to ensure that the company maintained the highest quality standards in production and export. His commitment to excellence helped Akbar Brothers become a household name, synonymous with quality tea worldwide.

A Legacy Built on Integrity

Perhaps one of Mr. Inayet Akbarally’s most enduring contributions was the establishment of a strong corporate culture based on integrity, honesty, and social responsibility. These values were instilled in the very DNA of Akbar Brothers and became the bedrock upon which the company was built. He was widely respected not just for his business acumen but also for his ethical approach to business and his dedication to the welfare of his employees and the broader community.

Under his leadership, Akbar Brothers became known for its commitment to ethical business practices, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. The company consistently supported local communities, providing employment opportunities and investing in education and healthcare initiatives that improved the lives of thousands of people.

Global Recognition and Expansion

In recent years, Akbar Brothers continued to expand its global presence, with the company launching operations in Oman in July 2022. This move reflected the continued growth and success of the group under the guidance of Mr. Akbarally, who had remained deeply involved in the company’s operations until his passing.

The Akbar Group’s diversified portfolio now spans multiple industries, including real estate, energy, and healthcare. Mr. Akbarally’s foresight and leadership were integral to these successful expansions, ensuring the company’s sustainability and growth for generations to come.

A Lasting Legacy

The passing of Mr. Inayet Akbarally marks the loss of a true business icon whose contributions to the tea industry and Sri Lanka’s economy cannot be overstated. His vision, hard work, and integrity have left an indelible legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of business leaders.

In the wake of his passing, the Akbar Brothers Group remains committed to upholding the values and standards Mr. Akbarally instilled within the company. His legacy will continue to guide the company in the years to come, ensuring that his vision of excellence and integrity remains at the heart of everything Akbar Brothers stands for.

As Sri Lanka and the global tea industry mourn the loss of Mr. Inayet Akbarally, we honor his memory and thank him for a lifetime of dedicated service, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to his country, his company, and the people whose lives he touched.

May Allah (SWT) grant him eternal peace and bless him with Jannat al-Firdaus.