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India, the land of spices and vibrant culture, is also a global leader in tea production. Also known for its rich tea legacy, it is not only a large tea consumer but also one of the world’s major exporters. Here is Top 5 Leading Tea Exporting Countries and Insights.
For years, the country’s green plantations produced some of the most desirable tea kinds. But how did India’s tea exports evolve throughout time?
Tea Industry and Exports From India
Tea exports from India have a rich history. According to research, 81% of Indian tea produced in the mid-twentieth century was exported. However, tea cultivation is deeply rooted in the Indian economy, contributing significantly to both GDP and employment.
India’s major tea-producing regions include Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. These locations are well-known for their unique tastes and variations, which range from the robust Assam tea to the aromatic Darjeeling and gentle Nilgiri teas.
Types of tea exported from India
Black Tea
Black tea is the most popular type of Indian tea, with notable variants including Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri.
Green Tea
Green tea from India accounts for a smaller share of exports than black tea, although it is gaining popularity.
Oolong Tea
This semi-oxidized tea’s flavor characteristic combines black and green tea.
Top 5 Leading Tea Exporting Countries In the World
China
In 2022, China’s overall tea export volume was roughly 375,300 tons, valued at US$ 2.1 billion, up 1.59% from the previous year and accounting for more than a quarter of the global total.
China sells several types of tea, such as green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and scented tea. Green tea is the largest segment, with 83.6% of total tea exports.
The majority of Chinese tea exports went to North and Western African countries, with Morocco being the top buyer.
Kenya
Kenya is the leading supplier of black tea, whereas China is the most significant exporter of green tea.
Also Kenya is Africa’s top tea producer. Kenya’s tea export volume rose to 410 million kg in 2022 from 388 million kilograms in 2021.
Kenyan tea exports earned over US$ 1.2 billion in 2022, placing second due to the country’s weak shilling.
Kenya tea’s main export markets include Pakistan, Egypt, Yemen, Sudan, and the United Arab Emirates.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka was the third largest tea exporter in 2022, with 250.19 million kg.
Tea volume fell by 25.82 million kg across all categories, including bulk tea, tea bags, and bagged tea, as compared to 2021. Additionally, the total value has dropped to US$ 732.4 million.
Sri Lanka is famous for its Ceylon tea, which has a distinct flavor and taste.
Approximately half of the country’s tea exports are value-added, primarily tea in packs and bags.
India
Despite these challenges, India’s total tea export volume climbed by nearly 18% in 2022, reaching approximately 230 million kg.
Despite a significant fall in Iranian purchases, demand from Russia, the CIS countries, and West Asia has surged, boosting Indian tea exports.
The United Arab Emirates, Russia, the United States, Iran, and the United Kingdom are major importers of Indian tea, with Assam and Darjeeling being especially popular.
Poland
Tea exports account for about 0.073% of Poland’s total exports.
In 2022, Poland was one of Central and Eastern Europe’s largest tea exporters, with a total export value of US$ 262.8 million.
Although this amount decreased by 3.85% from 2021, this country remains one of the world’s largest tea exporters.
Major destinations for Polish tea included France, the United States, Australia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
Also Read This: Leading 6 Export Products From India
How to Start a Tea Export Business In India?
Starting a tea export business in India requires multiple stages. Begin with extensive study and planning to better understand global demand and identify target markets.
- Register your business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or company, and get a PAN (Permanent Account Number).
- Obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
- Register with the Tea Board of India for export certification.
- Ensure that your tea fulfills international quality standards and receives any relevant certifications, such as ISO, HACCP, or Organic certification, based on market demands.
To remain competitive, continuously analyze market changes and client feedback. To increase your chances of success, take advantage of the Lime Import Export Institute’s services and training.
Wrapping It Up
The tea business is an essential component of the world economy. Tea is a popular beverage in many parts of the world, and its consumption is expanding. The leading tea-exporting countries play an important role in supplying this demand. Many of these countries’ economies rely heavily on tea, which employs millions of people.
FAQs
Which country is the world’s largest tea exporter?
China is the world’s top tea exporter.
Which types of tea does India primarily export?
India exports predominantly black tea, although it also produces green, white, and specialty teas.
What is Kenya recognized for when it comes to tea exports?
It is well-known for producing high-quality black tea, which is prized for its crisp flavor and vibrant color.
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