NEW DELHI: The Indian tea industry, which has been facing numerous challenges over the years, finally has a reason to celebrate. Recent data released by the Tea Board of India indicates that India has emerged as the second-largest tea exporter in the world in 2024, surpassing Sri Lanka and trailing behind Kenya, which retained the top position.
India exported 254 million kilograms (Mkg) of tea in 2024, marking a significant jump from its 231 Mkg exports in 2023. In comparison, Sri Lanka’s tea exports remained at a similar level as in 2023, allowing India to secure the second spot. Kenya, which remains the world’s largest tea exporter, shipped over 500 Mkg of tea in 2024.
India’s 2024 export figures (254 Mkg) were the second highest in its history, only behind 2018, when the country exported around 256 Mkg. The Indian tea industry aims to achieve an export target of 300 Mkg by 2030, given the recent upward trend.
The tea exports in 2024 generated a revenue of ₹7,112 crore, reflecting a significant boost to the industry. Over the past few years, India’s tea export figures have remained within 200-225 Mkg, except for 2018 and 2024.
One of the driving factors behind this growth is the favorable export policies introduced by the Union and state governments. Various schemes aimed at promoting orthodox tea production have played a crucial role in increasing exports. According to Prabir Kumar Bhattacharjee, Secretary General of the Tea Association of India, "the tea industry is optimistic about expanding its global market share with continued government support."
The bulk of India’s export growth has come from the orthodox tea segment. This category of tea has gained popularity in international markets, leading to increased demand and export volumes. Orthodox tea production has been actively promoted through government incentives, which have helped India compete effectively in the global market.
India produces around 1,400 Mkg of tea annually, with a significant portion consumed domestically. The recent increase in exports has provided a much-needed boost to the industry, raising hopes of achieving record-breaking export figures in the coming years. The Tea Board of India and other industry stakeholders are now focusing on expanding into new markets and enhancing the quality of exports to sustain the growth momentum.
Meanwhile, Greek fruit and vegetable exports continue their upward trajectory, according to data analyzed by the Association of Greek Fruit, Vegetable, and Juice Exporters, Incofruit Hellas. The export flow of oranges remains stable, reaching 254,155 tons—a rise of 8.5% compared to the same period last year. Mandarins, on the other hand, recorded a significant 13.7% increase, totaling 151,413 tons in the 2023/24 period.
Kiwi exports also showed a positive trend, rising by 6.6% to 196,055 tons between September 1, 2024, and March 28, 2025, compared to 172,108 tons during the previous year. Strawberry exports saw a slight increase of 0.4%, estimated at 33,100 tons from early 2025 until March 28, compared to 33,000 tons in the 2023/24 period.
Apple exports continued at a slow pace, but with a notable 59.1% increase, reaching 45,084 tons between September 1, 2024, and March 28, 2025, up from 28,336 tons in the same period last year. Meanwhile, Greece also imported 3,700 tons of apples in 2025, mainly from Poland, North Macedonia, and Spain.
Cucumber exports increased by 5.6%, reaching 60,037 tons compared to 57,390 tons during the 2023/24 period. Tomato exports saw a remarkable 30% rise, totaling 16,200 tons from January 1, 2025, to March 28, 2025. The majority of these exports were directed toward Bulgaria, Albania, and Romania.
However, Greek exporters have expressed concerns over a new draft law in Bulgaria that mandates at least 50% of products in stores to be of Bulgarian origin. The objective of the measure is to reduce consumer prices by 20%. However, this provision contradicts a fundamental principle of the European Union—the free movement of goods and people within the EU-27. According to Incofruit Hellas’ special advisor, Greek exporters are urging the Greek government to intervene to prevent the adoption of this legislation, which could severely impact Greek exports to Bulgaria.
As both India and Greece navigate their respective agricultural export landscapes, the importance of government support, favorable policies, and market adaptability becomes increasingly clear. The tea and fruit industries in these nations are poised for growth, provided they can overcome existing challenges and seize emerging opportunities in the global market.
