India surpasses Sri Lanka to become second largest tea exporter

March 27, 2025 at 1:00 PM

India has emerged as the world’s second-largest exporter of tea, surpassing Sri Lanka with exports reaching 255 million kg in 2024, according to data from the Tea Board of India.

This marks a significant increase of 10% from the 231.69 million kg exported in 2023, despite global market uncertainties due to geopolitical tensions. The value of tea exports also rose by over 15%, reaching Indian Rs 7,111 crore in 2024, driven by higher prices.

A notable surge in shipments to Iraq, which accounted for 20% of India’s tea exports, has been observed, with expectations to send 40-50 million kg to the West Asian nation this fiscal year. Indian exporters capitalized on opportunities in various West Asian markets during a period of low Sri Lankan production, successfully maintaining their shipment volumes. (Silicone India)