India Surpasses Sri Lanka To Become World’s Second-largest Tea Exporter

India has surpassed Sri Lanka to become the world’s second-largest exporter of tea, with a record 255 million kg of tea exports in 2024.

The country has achieved this milestone despite the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions in the global market.

Kenya has retained its position as the top tea exporter.

India’s Record As Tea Exports In 2024

India’s tea exports reached a 10-year high in 2024, with a 10% increase from 231.69 million kg in 2023.

The value of these exports also surged by over 15%, reaching Rs 7,111 crore compared to Rs 6,161 crore in 2023.

The rise in export value was driven by higher prices during the year.

A sharp increase in tea shipments to Iraq has been one of the key drivers of this growth, accounting for 20% of India’s total tea exports.

Exporters are anticipating sending 40-50 million kg of tea to Iraq in the current fiscal year.

Indian exporters have been able to retain their foothold in West Asia, especially after Sri Lanka’s crop was low in previous years.

India now exports tea to over 25 countries, with major markets including the UAE, Iraq, Iran, Russia, the USA, and the UK.

India accounts for about 10% of global tea exports, cementing its position as one of the top five exporters worldwide.

India’s Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri teas are renowned worldwide for their quality.

India exports 96% black tea, with smaller quantities of green, herbal, masala, and lemon tea.

Boosting Tea Production In India

India has undertaken several initiatives to boost its tea production and establish a strong brand for Indian tea in global markets.

The Assam Valley and Cachar in Assam, along with Darjeeling in West Bengal, are the primary tea-producing regions.

In southern India, the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka contribute 17% of the country’s total tea output.

Small tea growers play an increasingly important role, contributing nearly 52% of the total tea produced. Currently, there are approximately 2.30 lakh small tea growers in the supply chain.

Government Of India Supports Small Tea Growers

The Government of India, through the Tea Board, has introduced several measures to support small tea growers.

These include the formation of 352 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), 440 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and 17 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs).

Additionally, the government has assisted in acquiring pruning machines, mechanical harvesters and setting up mini tea factories to encourage entrepreneurship.

The Indian tea industry directly employs 1.16 million workers, with an equal number indirectly associated.

Through these initiatives, the industry aims to continue its growth and enhance the livelihoods of those involved in the tea trade.

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