Synopsis
India has overtaken Sri Lanka to become the world’s second-largest tea exporter in 2024, reaching a remarkable 255 million kg in exports, while Kenya remains in the lead. The surge represents a 10% increase from the previous year, fueled by higher prices and significant shipments to Iraq and other markets.Key Takeaways
- India is now the second-largest tea exporter.
- Exports reached 255 million kg in 2024.
- Value of exports increased by 15 percent.
- 20 percent of exports went to Iraq.
- Indian tea is shipped to over 25 countries.
New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) India has outpaced Sri Lanka to claim the title of the world’s second-largest tea exporter, achieving 255 million kg in tea exports for 2024. Kenya continues to hold the first position, as per data from the Tea Board of India.
Despite global market uncertainties due to geopolitical issues, India's tea exports reached a remarkable 10-year high of 255 million kg in 2024, reflecting a solid 10 percent increase from the 231.69 million kg exported in 2023.
The financial value of these exports surged over 15 percent, rising to Rs 7,111 crore in 2024 from Rs 6,161 crore the previous year, attributed to higher pricing.
Significantly, shipments to Iraq increased, now representing 20 percent of total tea exports, with forecasts suggesting 40-50 million kg destined for the West Asian nation this fiscal year.
Indian exporters capitalized on opportunities in various West Asian markets during Sri Lanka's crop decline, successfully maintaining their export volumes.
India's tea is shipped to over 25 countries, with key markets including the UAE, Iraq, Iran, Russia, USA, and UK.
As one of the top five tea exporters globally, India accounts for approximately 10 percent of the world’s total tea exports.
Notably, Indian teas from Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri are renowned worldwide, with black tea making up about 96 percent of total exports, alongside varieties like regular tea, green tea, herbal tea, masala tea, and lemon tea.
In an effort to enhance tea production, India has implemented strategies to develop a distinct brand identity for Indian tea and improve the welfare of families involved in the tea sector.
The tea-producing regions in Assam include the Assam Valley and Cachar, while Dooars, Terai, and Darjeeling are significant areas in West Bengal.
The southern states of India contribute around 17 percent of the national tea output, with Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka as the primary producers.
Small tea growers represent a growing sector, producing nearly 52 percent of the total tea output, with approximately 2.30 lakh small tea growers participating in the supply chain.
The Government of India, through the Tea Board, has initiated various measures to support this segment, including the establishment of 352 Self Help Groups (SHGs), 440 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and 17 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs).
Efforts also include engaging with small tea growers for quality harvesting, capacity building, and crop management, along with providing assistance for acquiring pruning machines and mechanical harvesters.
Furthermore, mini tea factories have been established to promote entrepreneurship and provide opportunities for unemployed youth.
The Indian tea industry directly employs 1.16 million workers, with an equal number associated indirectly.
