Top 10 Tea Exporting Countries in the World [2024] 🍵

Did you know that tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world? From the soothing aroma of a hot cup of tea to the refreshing taste of an iced tea on a hot summer day, tea has become an integral part of our lives. But have you ever wondered which countries are the largest exporters of tea? In this article, we will take a deep dive into the top 10 tea exporting countries in the world, providing you with fascinating insights and surprising facts about the global tea industry. So grab a cup of your favorite tea and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• Quick Tips and Facts
• Background: The Global Tea Industry
• China: The Undisputed Tea Exporting Champion
• Kenya: The Black Tea Powerhouse
• Sri Lanka: The Jewel of Ceylon Tea
• India: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
• Poland: A Rising Star in the Tea Export Market
• Germany: Where Tea Culture Thrives
• Japan: The Land of Matcha
• UAE: A Hub for Tea Trade
• UK: A Nation of Tea Lovers
• Vietnam: From Coffee to Tea
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

Quick Answer

The top 10 largest tea exporting countries in the world are:

1. China
2. Kenya
3. Sri Lanka
4. India
5. Poland
6. Germany
7. Japan
8. UAE
9. UK
10. Vietnam

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the details, here are some quick tips and facts about the top 10 tea exporting countries:

✅ China is the largest tea exporter in the world, with a wide variety of teas including green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and scented tea.

✅ Kenya is the major exporter of black tea, while China dominates the green tea market.

✅ Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon, is famous for its high-quality black tea and value-added tea products.

✅ India is known for its diverse tea production, with major regions like Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri producing distinct teas.

✅ Poland has emerged as a rising star in the tea export market, with a focus on flavored and herbal teas.

✅ Germany has a strong tea culture, with a wide variety of teas available and a thriving tea trade.

✅ Japan is renowned for its matcha, a powdered green tea, and exports a significant amount of green tea to the United States.

✅ The UAE serves as a hub for tea trade, connecting tea-producing countries with the rest of the world.

✅ The UK, despite being known for its tea consumption, also exports a considerable amount of tea.

✅ Vietnam, traditionally known for its coffee production, has also become a major player in the tea export market.

Now, let’s explore each of these countries in more detail and uncover the fascinating stories behind their tea exports.

Background: The Global Tea Industry

Before we delve into the top 10 tea exporting countries, let’s take a moment to understand the global tea industry. Tea, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is cultivated in various regions around the world. The tea industry encompasses the production, processing, and distribution of tea, with different countries specializing in different types of tea.

The global tea industry is dominated by several key players, with China being the largest producer and consumer of tea. Other major tea-producing countries include India, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. These countries have a long history of tea cultivation and have developed unique tea varieties and processing techniques.

Tea is categorized into different types based on the level of oxidation and processing methods. The main types of tea include green tea, black tea, oolong tea, white tea, and herbal tea. Each type has its own distinct flavor profile and health benefits, making tea a versatile and beloved beverage worldwide.

Now, let’s explore the top 10 tea exporting countries and discover what makes them stand out in the global tea market.

1. China: The Undisputed Tea Exporting Champion

China, the birthplace of tea, is the undisputed champion when it comes to tea exports. With a rich tea culture dating back thousands of years, China offers a wide variety of teas that cater to different tastes and preferences.

China’s Tea Export Highlights:

• Green tea is the largest segment of China’s tea exports, accounting for 83.6% of the total tea exports. Some popular green teas from China include Longjing (Dragon Well), Bi Luo Chun, and Mao Feng.
• Black tea, oolong tea, scented tea, and other tea varieties also contribute to China’s tea exports.
• China’s tea exports are primarily directed towards Northern and Western African countries, with Morocco being the largest purchaser of Chinese tea.

China’s tea exports are a testament to the country’s rich tea heritage and the craftsmanship of its tea producers. Whether you’re a fan of delicate green teas or robust black teas, China has something to offer for every tea lover.

2. Kenya: The Black Tea Powerhouse

When it comes to black tea, Kenya takes the crown as the major exporter. Known for its bold and flavorful black teas, Kenya has established itself as a powerhouse in the global tea market.

Kenya’s Tea Export Highlights:

• Kenya’s tea export volume has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2022, Kenya exported 410 million kg of tea, up from 388 million kg in 2021.
• The value of Kenyan tea exports exceeded $1.2 billion in 2022, making it one of the top tea exporting countries in terms of value.
• Kenya’s tea exports are primarily directed towards countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and the United Kingdom.

Kenyan black teas are known for their bright color, brisk flavor, and strong aroma. They are widely used in blends and are favored by tea enthusiasts around the world.

3. Sri Lanka: The Jewel of Ceylon Tea

Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is renowned for its high-quality black teas. The country’s tea industry has a rich history and is known for its commitment to producing exceptional teas.

Sri Lanka’s Tea Export Highlights:

• Sri Lanka was the third-largest tea exporter in 2022, with a total export volume of 250.19 million kg.
• Approximately half of Sri Lanka’s tea exports are value-added, with tea in packs and bags being the most popular.
• Sri Lanka’s tea exports are widely distributed across the globe, with major markets including Russia, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

Ceylon tea, as it is commonly known, is celebrated for its bright color, brisk flavor, and distinct aroma. Whether enjoyed as a hot cup of tea or used in iced tea blends, Ceylon tea offers a delightful experience for tea lovers.

4. India: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

India, with its diverse tea-growing regions, is a major player in the global tea industry. From the robust black teas of Assam to the delicate flavors of Darjeeling, India offers a wide range of teas that cater to different palates.

India’s Tea Export Highlights:

• India’s total tea export volume witnessed a significant increase of nearly 18% in 2022, reaching around 230 million kg.
• The United Arab Emirates, Russia, the United States, Iran, and the United Kingdom are among the major importers of Indian tea.
• Indian tea is produced in three major regions: Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri. Each region has its own unique tea characteristics and flavor profiles.

Indian teas are known for their strong and bold flavors, making them a favorite choice for those who prefer a robust cup of tea. Whether you’re sipping on a cup of Assam’s malty black tea or enjoying the floral notes of Darjeeling’s first flush, Indian teas offer a delightful journey for your taste buds.

5. Poland: A Rising Star in the Tea Export Market

Poland may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of tea, but it has emerged as a rising star in the tea export market. With a focus on flavored and herbal teas, Poland has carved a niche for itself in the global tea industry.

Poland’s Tea Export Highlights:

• Tea exports make up around 0.073% of Poland’s overall exports, showcasing the country’s growing presence in the tea market.
• Major destinations for Polish tea exports include France, the United States, Australia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
• Poland’s tea industry is known for its innovative tea blends and unique flavor combinations.

Polish teas offer a delightful twist to traditional tea flavors, with a wide range of herbal and flavored teas to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a fruity infusion or a soothing herbal blend, Poland has something to satisfy your tea cravings.

6. Germany: Where Tea Culture Thrives

Germany, known for its love of beer and sausages, also has a thriving tea culture. Tea consumption is deeply rooted in German traditions, and the country boasts a wide variety of teas and tea houses.

Germany’s Tea Export Highlights:

• In 2022, Germany exported more than 21 thousand tonnes of tea to over 100 countries, showcasing its significant presence in the global tea trade.
• Germany’s tea market is diverse, with a wide range of teas available, including black tea, green tea, herbal tea, and fruit infusions.
• German tea companies are known for their commitment to quality and sustainability, ensuring that tea lovers can enjoy the finest teas.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling tea shops of Berlin or enjoying a cup of tea in a cozy café in Munich, Germany offers a delightful tea experience for both locals and visitors.

7. Japan: The Land of Matcha

When it comes to green tea, Japan is the undisputed champion. Known for its matcha, a powdered green tea, Japan has a long history of tea cultivation and a deep appreciation for tea culture.

Japan’s Tea Export Highlights:

• Green tea is the most popular type of tea exported from Japan, with matcha being the star of the show.
• The United States is the largest market for Japanese green tea, accounting for 34% of total tea exports.
• Japan’s tea exports also include sencha, genmaicha, and hojicha, each offering a unique flavor profile.

Japanese green teas are celebrated for their vibrant green color, umami flavor, and health benefits. Whether you’re whisking up a bowl of matcha or enjoying a refreshing cup of sencha, Japanese teas offer a taste of tradition and craftsmanship.

8. UAE: A Hub for Tea Trade

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) serves as a hub for tea trade, connecting tea-producing countries with the rest of the world. Tea has long been an integral part of Arab culture, and the UAE plays a significant role in the global tea market.

UAE’s Tea Export Highlights:

• In 2021, the UAE exported over $152.2 million worth of tea, showcasing its importance in the tea trade.
• The UAE’s strategic location and well-established infrastructure make it an ideal hub for tea distribution.
• The UAE imports tea from various countries and re-exports it to neighboring countries in the Middle East and North Africa.

The UAE’s tea industry is a testament to the country’s commitment to trade and its role as a global tea hub. Whether you’re sipping on a cup of tea in a traditional Emirati café or exploring the bustling tea markets of Dubai, the UAE offers a vibrant tea experience.

9. UK: A Nation of Tea Lovers

The United Kingdom (UK) is often associated with its love for tea, and it’s no surprise that the country is also a significant tea exporter. Despite being known for its tea consumption, the UK also plays a role in the global tea trade.

UK’s Tea Export Highlights:

• In 2022, the UK was the ninth-largest tea exporter, with a total value of around $135.7 million.
• The major tea importers in the United Kingdom include Ireland, the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, and France.
• The UK’s tea industry focuses on specialty teas, including black teas, herbal teas, and fruit infusions.

Whether you’re enjoying a traditional English breakfast tea or exploring the wide range of specialty teas available in the UK, the country offers a delightful tea experience for tea enthusiasts.

10. Vietnam: From Coffee to Tea

Vietnam, traditionally known for its coffee production, has also made a name for itself in the tea export market. With its favorable climate and fertile soil, Vietnam has become a major player in the global tea industry.

Vietnam’s Tea Export Highlights:

• Vietnam is a significant tea producer and exporter, with tea exports increasing by 10.7% in 2022 compared to the previous year.
• Vietnamese tea exports primarily target markets such as Pakistan, Russia, China, and Indonesia.
• Vietnam’s tea industry focuses on green tea, black tea, and oolong tea, offering a diverse range of flavors.

Vietnamese teas are known for their smooth and mellow flavors, making them a popular choice among tea lovers. Whether you’re exploring the tea plantations of the northern highlands or enjoying a cup of Vietnamese tea in a bustling café, Vietnam offers a unique tea experience.

FAQ

Which country has the largest exporter of tea?

China is the largest exporter of tea in the world. With its rich tea heritage and diverse tea offerings, China dominates the global tea export market.

Read more about “The Largest Tea Exporter in the World … 🍵”

Who is the largest exporter of tea in the world 2024?

China is projected to remain the largest exporter of tea in 2024. The country’s extensive tea production and well-established tea trade make it the undisputed champion in the global tea industry.

Read more about “Which Country is the Largest Producer of Tea in 2024? 🌍”

Which country is the largest producer of tea?

China is the largest producer of tea in the world. The country’s long history of tea cultivation and its diverse tea varieties contribute to its position as the top tea producer.

Read more about “Top 10 Tea Producing Countries in Asia … 🍵”

Which country has the cheapest tea?

India is known for producing tea at affordable prices, making it one of the countries with the cheapest tea. The country’s large-scale tea production and competitive market contribute to its affordability.

Read more about “Where Does the US Get Its Tea? … 🍵”

Conclusion

In conclusion, the top 10 tea exporting countries in the world offer a fascinating glimpse into the global tea industry. From China’s diverse tea offerings to Kenya’s bold black teas, each country has its own unique tea story to tell. Whether you’re a fan of green tea, black tea, or herbal tea, exploring the teas from these countries will take you on a delightful journey of flavors and traditions. So why not expand your tea horizons and try teas from different corners of the world? Cheers to a world of tea!

Recommended Links

• Green Tea Cultivation
• Herbal Tea Planting
• Tea Plant Varieties
• Soil and Climate for Tea
• Tea Market Trends
• The Largest Tea Exporter in the World 2024 🍵

Reference Links

• List of Top 10 Largest Tea Exporting Countries – GeeksforGeeks