India’s Tea Exports Show Growth but Fall Short of Pre-Pandemic Levels
India’s tea exports rose by 16 percent in the first nine months of the year compared with the same period in 2021, according to data circulating from industry observers. The gains reflect steady demand in international markets, yet the total still does not reach the peaks recorded before the Covid-19 disruption. Local press notes this trajectory, highlighting the Tea Council of India as a key source in the analysis.
During January through September, shipments reached 165.58 million kilograms, up from 142.55 million kilograms in the corresponding period of the previous year. To understand the scale, export totals in recent peaks show 209.72 million kilograms in 2020 and 195.5 million kilograms in 2021. Before the pandemic, the years 2018 and 2019 posted even higher figures at 256.06 million kilograms and 252.15 million kilograms respectively. While current momentum suggests stronger foreign sales this year, external factors have tempered the pace. International sanctions affecting Russia and Iran have posed challenges for payments and trade flows, influencing the full export potential.
A representative from the Indian Tea Exporters Association notes that practical impediments still hinder growth. Anshuman Kanoria, who leads the association, emphasized that official support could help smooth payment issues and unlock greater export opportunities. The dialogue between policy makers and industry groups continues to focus on easing trade frictions and sustaining momentum in key markets.
Earlier reports from financial outlets indicated a partial revival in export activity as certain agri-food commodities resumed shipments to Russia. The return of tea, rice, fruit, coffee, and seafood to Russian traders marked a significant shift after the disruption linked to the Ukraine crisis. This development underscores the broader effort to diversify and stabilize export channels in the face of geopolitical and logistical headwinds.