Stagnation in Tea Exports Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Tea exports from the country remained almost stagnant at 231.691 million kilograms in 2023, similarly to the 231.08 million kilograms in 2022. The loss of the Iranian market due to US sanctions and reduced shipments to Russia amid its conflict with Ukraine severely affected total exports.

Tea exports from the country nearly remained stagnant at 231.691 million kilograms during the calendar year 2023, according to the latest Tea Board data.

The beverage's exports during the preceding calendar year of 2022 were recorded at 231.08 million kilograms.

An Indian Tea Association (ITA) spokesperson stated that the lost Iranian market due to payment problems following US sanctions had a negative impact on the overall offtake of the beverage.

Iranian imports of Indian tea dropped sharply to approximately 5.16 million kilograms in 2023, down from 54 million kilograms in 2019.

Additionally, shipments to Russia, the largest buyer within the CIS bloc, also experienced setbacks due to its ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Region-wise, North Indian tea exports in 2023 were reported at 141 million kilograms, while South India's stood at 90.69 million kilograms for the same period.

(With inputs from agencies.)