India's tea exports touch highest levels, but rising imports a concern

As India’s tea exports reach their highest levels in years, a sharp rise in imports is raising concerns among producers.

 

In 2024, India took the third spot in tea exports, pipping Sri Lanka after exporting 254.67 million kg (mkg) of tea, up from 231.69 mkg in 2023. Export earnings at Rs 7,111.43 crore were also higher than Rs 6,160.86 crore.

 

Data from the International Tea Committee Bulletin for 2024 shows that India was the third largest exporter after Kenya and China. In 2023, Sri Lanka had held the third spot.

 

However, producers’ bodies Indian Tea Association (ITA) and Tea Association