Tea Exports From India Remain Flat In 2023 Amid Global Challenges

New Delhi, Jul 18 (KNN) Tea exports from India remained virtually unchanged in 2023, according to recent data released by the Tea Board.

The country exported 231.691 million kilograms of tea during the calendar year, compared to 231.08 million kilograms in 2022, representing a marginal increase.

The stagnation in exports can be attributed to several factors, including geopolitical tensions and international sanctions.

A representative from the Indian Tea Association (ITA) highlighted the significant impact of losing the Iranian market due to payment issues stemming from U.S. sanctions.

Tea shipments to Iran plummeted from 54 million kilograms in 2019 to approximately 5.16 million kilograms in 2023.

Further compounding the situation, exports to Russia, traditionally the largest buyer among Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) nations, have been adversely affected by the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Regional data shows that North Indian tea exports accounted for 141 million kilograms in 2023, while South Indian tea exports reached 90.69 million kilograms during the same period.

The tea industry faces ongoing challenges as it navigates complex international trade dynamics and seeks to maintain its position in the global market.

(KNN Bureau)