The trends driving global tea production

“Global tea production amounts to more than US$17 billion annually (about R275 billion), while world tea trade is valued at about US$9,5 billion (R161 billion).

Smallholders are responsible for 60% of world production. Tea provides productive jobs in rural areas, which enables households to meet their food security needs and improve their nutritional status.

Global per capita tea consumption has increased by 2,5% over the past decade, with marked expansion in tea-producing countries. Developing economies in East Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean have been driving the growth in demand. In the more mature European markets, as well as other advanced countries, demand for tea has dropped.

The need for innovation is evident, as consumers increasingly demand organic ingredients, and diversified blends and flavours. There is also growing interest in higher-quality speciality teas,