A Comprehensive Guide to Tea Exports from India
Tea, known as “chai” in India, transcends cultural and regional differences, uniting people through its timeless appeal. Originating in China, tea has traveled a long journey from China to Europe and then to India, becoming the world’s second most consumed drink after water. Despite being a major exporter, India consumes 80% of its domestically grown tea. In this blog, we explore the rich history of Indian tea exports, current trends, and provide a list of top tea exporters in India.
The Fascinating Journey and Flavors of Indian Tea
Tea is more than just a beverage in India; it’s an integral part of its cultural fabric. India’s black tea varieties form the foundation for many global tea blends. But how did India become a tea powerhouse?
Historical Insights
- Introduction: Tea was introduced to Northeast India in the 1840s by the British East India Company, beginning with cultivation in Assam.
- Cultural Shift: Initially valued for its therapeutic benefits, tea evolved into a popular social drink.
- Development: Over the years, various types of tea, including green, black, oolong, and white, were developed.
- Major Producer: Assam remains the largest tea-producing state, known for its strong and malty tea.
Leading Tea-Producing States in India (2024)
- Assam
- West Bengal
- Tamil Nadu
- Kerala
- Karnataka
Assam is the largest tea producer, followed by West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Other states like Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Mizoram contribute to tea production.
Key Facts and Insights on Indian Tea Exports
Tea exports from India the market show a complex but intriguing landscape:
Recent Export Data
- 2023–24: From April 2023 to January 2024, India exported tea worth $673 million, a decrease from $702 million during the same period the previous year.
- Decline in Shipments to Iran: Shipments to Iran dropped from 54.45 million kg in 2019 to about 5.16 million kg in January-November 2023.
- Overall Export Decline: Tea shipments decreased by 1.65%, from 185.75 million kg in January-October 2022 to 182.69 million kg in 2023.
Year-Wise Export Statistics
- 2021–22: 201 million kg of tea were exported.
- 2022–23: Export quantity increased by 13.75%, reaching 228.40 million kg.
- 2023–24: Export value was $673 million, a slight decrease from the previous year.
Major Tea Exporting Countries in 2024
Tea Exporting Countries are as follows:
- China
- India
- Sri Lanka
- Vietnam
- Turkey
- Malawi
- Pakistan
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Bangladesh
Major Tea Importing Countries in 2024
Tea Importing Countries are as follows:
- United States
- UK
- Egypt
- Germany
- Japan
- China
- Canada
- Netherlands
- Australia
- Poland
The USA is the largest importer of tea, followed by the UK, Egypt, Germany, Japan, and China.
Leading Tea Exporters in India
Here are some of the major tea exporters in India:
- S.S.K. Exports Limited
- Shah Brothers
- Vikrma Impex (P) Ltd.
- Girnar Food & Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
- Asian Tea Company Private Limited
- Madhu Jayanti International Ltd.
- Bhansali & Co.
- McLeod Russel India Limited
- Balaji Agro Pvt. Ltd
- Tata Consumers Product Ltd
These companies are significant contributors to India’s tea export industry. For an updated list of tea exporters and suppliers, visit Seair Exim Solutions.
Finding Tea Suppliers in India
To find top tea suppliers or exporters in India, use our data-driven dashboard at Seair Exim Solutions. We provide reliable, up-to-date information on international trade, including import/export data and Harmonized System codes for over 130 countries.
Final Words
India's tea export highlights the country’s strong tea culture and responsiveness to global market demand. As global tea production and consumption continue to rise, especially in developing countries, Indian exporters can leverage data insights and market analysis to capitalize on new opportunities.
For any queries related to tea exporters in India or updated tea export data, visit Seair Exim Solutions. Schedule a free live demo with our data experts today! Happy trading.
