- India has all the ingredients to emerge as a superpower in the global tea industry, says James Suranga Perera, Executive Director of the International Tea Committee.
- Speaking at the 8th India International Tea Convention held recently in Kochi, he emphasized that India’s strengths as a leading producer, consumer, and exporter of tea position it strategically in the global market.
Global Tea Statistics and India’s Share
- The total global tea production in 2024 stood at 7.074 billion kg, while consumption was recorded at 6.97 billion kg.
- Within this, India produced 1.303 billion kg and consumed 1.22 billion kg, reinforcing its status as the second-largest producer and consumer of tea worldwide.
- In terms of exports, India ranked third globally.
- India exported 255 million kg of tea in 2024, earning nearly $800 million.
- While this volume is higher than Sri Lanka’s 245 million kg, Sri Lanka generated $1.4 billion in export revenue — almost double that of India.
- This gap highlights the need for India to focus on improving tea quality to gain better price realization in international markets.
- By contrast, Kenya, the world’s largest tea exporter, exports almost its entire tea output, while China, the second-largest exporter, retains a significant share for domestic consumption.
Need to Explore New and Emerging Markets
- It is strongly recommended that India diversify its export destinations, specifically targeting emerging markets like South America and Africa.
- These regions offer untapped potential for Indian tea exports, and focusing on them could help India expand its global footprint.
Domestic Consumption
- Domestically, there is a rising trend of Indian consumers willing to pay a premium for quality tea.
- India’s per capita tea consumption currently stands at 840 grams per year, which is significantly lower than countries like Turkey, where the figure is 3 kg per capita — the highest in the world. if India’s per capita consumption increases even to 1 kg, the country could potentially consume its entire production, reducing dependency on exports.
About 8th India International Tea Convention (IITC) 2025
- IITC 2025 was held in Kochi, Kerala, highlighting the strength, diversity, and global potential of Indian tea.
- Jointly organized by the Tea Board of India and the United Planters’ Association of Southern India (UPASI), under the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), along with key industry bodies.
- It aims to promote global dialogue, innovation, and collaboration across the entire tea value chain.
