India's Tea Exports Reach Highest Level in a Decade

India's tea exports jumped to a decade-high of 255 million kg in 2024, even as global uncertainties were created by geopolitical tensions, based on figures from the Tea Board of India. This is a strong 10% rise from 231.69 million kg in 2023.

The average export price of Indian tea also increased by 10%, bringing much-needed respite to the industry, which had been hit by weather-related issues in 2023.

Robust Growth in Core Markets

Iraq was the biggest purchaser, taking up 20% of all exports, and it is expected that shipments this financial year will be 40-50 million kg.
Indian traders, who diversified into West Asian countries during a shortage in Sri Lanka's crop, have managed to hold their volumes in the region.
India sells tea to over 25 nations, with the UAE, Iraq, Iran, Russia, US, and UK representing the biggest markets.

India's Role in the World Tea Market
India is still among the world's top five tea exporters, accounting for approximately 10% of the global tea exports. The nation is famous for its high-quality Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri teas.

96% of the Indian tea exports are black tea, and others are green tea, herbal tea, masala tea, and lemon tea.

Increasing Production & Small Tea Cultivators
To make the tea industry robust, India has undertaken various efforts to increase output, create a strong international brand, and advance the well-being of tea cultivation communities.

Significant tea-grown areas:

Assam: Assam Valley & Cachar
West Bengal: Dooars, Terai & Darjeeling
South India: Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Karnataka (17% of total output)
Small tea growers (STGs) are becoming a prime segment, accounting for 52% of total production, with almost 2.3 lakh small tea growers in the supply chain.

Government efforts under the Tea Board of India are:

Creation of 352 Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Setting up of 440 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) & 17 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs)
Training sessions on quality plucking, capacity development, and crop care
Subsidy for pruning machines and mechanical pluckers
Establishment of mini tea factories to boost entrepreneurship and job creation
Employment & Economic Contribution

Direct employment of 1.16 million workers exists in the Indian tea industry, with the same number indirectly involved, making the sector a very crucial one to the economy as well as the employment of the country.

With strong global demand and government support, India’s tea industry is well-positioned for further growth in the coming years.