India Climbs to 3rd Position in Global Tea Exports

India Rises to 3rd Place in Global Tea Exports, Surpassing Sri Lanka

India has ascended to the third position in global tea exports, surpassing Sri Lanka, with a total export volume of 254.67 million kilograms in 2024. The Tea Board India announced that the country recorded a value realization of Rs 7,111.43 crores, strengthening its presence in the international market.

India now commands 13.55 percent of the global tea export market, a significant increase from its previous standing in 2023, when it exported 231.69 million kilograms. The leading tea-exporting nations remain Kenya and China, occupying the top two positions. According to the International Tea Committee (ITC), Kenya led with 594.50 million kilograms, securing 31.63 percent of the market, while China followed with 374.1 million kilograms, holding 19.9 percent of the market.

Sri Lanka, which previously held the third position in 2023, slipped to fourth place, exporting 245.79 million kilograms and capturing 13.08 percent of the world market share.

Breaking down India’s tea export performance, North India accounted for 154.81 million kilograms, achieving a value realization of Rs 4,833.12 crores. South India contributed 99.86 million kilograms with a value of Rs 2,278.31 crores. In terms of share, North India led with 60.79 percent of the exported quantity and 67.96 percent of the total export value, while South India contributed 39.21 percent in volume and 32.04 percent in value.

Meanwhile, the Tea Board India, under the Union Commerce Ministry, is set to celebrate its 72nd Foundation Day on April 1. Established on April 1, 1953, under the Tea Act, the board plays a crucial role in assisting the cultivation, manufacture, and marketing of tea. It also supports research and development to enhance tea production and quality, promotes exports and domestic consumption, aids plantation workers through welfare programs, and encourages small tea growers.

India’s rising stature in global tea exports is expected to further boost its trade and reinforce its position as one of the world’s leading tea-producing nations.