Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the world, enjoyed by millions every day. Many countries grow tea, but some produce much more than others. From the green hills of Asia to the sunny fields of Africa, each region offers different flavours and types of tea.
In this blog, we will look at the Top 10 Largest Tea Producing Countries in the world and learn what makes each one special. Understanding the worlds largest tea producers will help us appreciate the hard work that goes into every cup we enjoy.
Biggest Tea Producers in the World 2024
Tea ranks among the most enjoyed beverages globally. While many countries grow tea, only a few are the biggest producers. These top tea producing countries offer high-quality tea and have strong production methods. Here’s a breakdown of the top tea producers in 2024.
| Ranking | Country Name | Production (in Tons) |
| 1 | China | 24,00,000 |
| 2 | India | 9,00,000 |
| 3 | Kenya | 3,05,000 |
| 4 | Sri Lanka | 3,00,000 |
| 5 | Turkey | 1,75,000 |
| 6 | Indonesia | 1,57,000 |
| 7 | Vietnam | 1,17,000 |
| 8 | Japan | 89,000 |
| 9 | Iran | 84,000 |
| 10 | Argentina | 79,000 |
1. China:
China has been producing tea for centuries. China is largest tea producing country in the world. In fact, it is the world’s biggest exporter, and consumer of tea. In 2022, China produced a staggering 3.35 million metric tons of tea. Known for its diverse range of teas from green and black to oolong and white China’s tea industry is deeply rooted in tradition.
The country’s warm, hilly regions are perfect for cultivating tea, and farmers still hand pick the leaves to ensure quality, mostly in the spring. They then process them through steps like withering, rolling, oxidizing, and drying.
As a major tea producing country, tea is not just a drink in China, it plays a big role in culture and social life. People enjoy tea during meals and special ceremonies. Chinese tea is very highly prized worldwide due to its quality and scope and thus forms an integral part of the culture of every local and global sphere.
2. India:
Tea is of utmost importance to Indian agriculture as well as to the economy. India, 2nd biggest tea producer in the world, produced 1,374.97 million kilograms of tea during 2022-23. It marked an increase from the last fiscal year’s 1,344.40 million kilograms. The country offers a wide range of tea varieties, such as Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri.
Assam is one of the major tea producing regions in India, and the Assam Valley and Cachar form the major tea growing areas. Meanwhile, In West Bengal, the major tea producing regions are Dooars, Terai, and Darjeeling. India’s tea is well known worldwide for its unique flavours and high quality, solidifying its position as a major tea producing country.
3. Kenya:
Kenya is one of the largest tea producing countries and exporters, known for its strong, bold flavors. In 2023, the country produced over 412,000 metric tons of tea, significantly less than the previous year. Despite this decline, tea remains a key export for Kenya, keeping it among the top tea exporting nations.
Tea production takes place mainly in the highlands, where a particular climate is well suited to the tea plant. Farmers put hard work into growing and picking the leaves. This has positioned Kenya on the top step of the highest tea producing countries in world.
4. Sri Lanka:
Tea production in Sri Lanka is a significant part of the country’s economy and culture. Sri Lanka produces around 300 million kilograms of tea per year, and in 2022, the total production was 231.867 million kilograms. The country’s tea is famed all over the world for its flavours and quality.
As a major tea producing country, Sri Lanka is also recognized as the largest tea exporter in the world. Tea is mainly produced in the central highland region, where the climate favours the plantation of tea.
Farmers carefully pick the tea leaves by hand, ensuring the best quality for export. Tea has made a vital contribution to the economy of Sri Lanka, and all families across the country are supported and provided with jobs.
5. Turkey:
Turkey is a significant tea producer, ranking among the top five in the world, contributing about 6-10% of global tea production. Additionally, the Rize region, located along the Black Sea coast, is the primary area for Turkish tea cultivation, benefiting from ideal climatic conditions. Farmers handpick tea leaves to ensure high quality, leading to strong local and international demand.
While not the largest tea producer in world, Turkey is renowned for its unique flavours and has earned a solid reputation in the market. Tea is deeply ingrained in Turkish culture, and many people enjoy it daily as part of their traditions.
6. Indonesia:
Indonesia is an important tea producing country and the seventh largest tea producer in the world. In 2023, it produced an estimated 122,700 metric tons of tea. The main area of West Java is marked by a suitable climatic condition as well as rich soil suitable for tea.
Farmers in Indonesia mainly grow black and green tea, using traditional methods to ensure high quality. It is grown mainly by the farmers of Indonesia, based on traditional methods for highly quality production.
The existence of the tea industry significantly determines the income-generating opportunities amongst families. The kind of Indonesian tea that is rich in unique flavours has become sought after both locally and internationally.
7. Vietnam:
Vietnam is a key tea producing country in Southeast Asia. In 2023, it produced around 1.13 million metric tons of fresh tea, up by just a few units or per cent from the previous year of 1.12 million metric tons.
Vietnam produces tea on more than 122,400 hectares of land. Good quality product profiles with pronounced flavour characters are due to the appropriate climatic and soil conditions. At home, as well as around the world, Vietnamese tea is extremely popular and the industry is growing steadily, helping the farmers as well as the economy.
8. Japan:
Japan is one of the most exceptional tea producing countries in the world, particularly in the Shizuoka Prefecture. This region contributes approximately 40% of the nation’s total output, primarily focusing on high-quality sencha.
Following closely is Kagoshima, situated on the island of Kyūshū, accounting for about 20% of Japan’s tea production. Additionally, this region, along with other Kyūshū prefectures, is celebrated for its rich flavours and diverse tea varieties, including matcha and gyokuro.
As one of the biggest tea producers in the world, Japan benefits from a unique climate and deep rooted traditions that shape its distinct flavors. Moreover, the art of tea is integral to Japanese culture, from serene tea ceremonies to daily rituals, showcasing the beauty and appreciation of this cherished beverage.
9. Iran:
Iran is an important tea producing country in the Middle East. Tea cultivation is mainly found in Caspian provinces, especially northern Gilan province.
Iran has over 42,000 tea plantations, most of them situated on steep hillsides above rice paddies. Many of these plantations are quite small, often less than one acre in size. The unique landscape and climate in this region help produce flavorful tea that is enjoyed both in Iran and around the world.
10. Argentina:
Argentina is a leading tea producing country in South America. It has about 40,000 hectares of tea plantation areas and ranks as one of the world’s top ten major tea producers. It may not be the world’s biggest tea producer, but Argentina is of equal importance both as a producer and an exporter.
Argentina’s tea is famous for its deep colour and brisk taste, making it popular for blending and in ready-to-drink (RTD) and iced tea. The growing season for tea in Argentina runs from November to May, which helps produce high-quality leaves that are enjoyed by many people around the globe.
The Final Words:
The top 10 tea producing countries each bring something special to the world of tea. From China’s long history to Argentina’s distinctive blends, these countries produce the tea we enjoy daily. Understanding the origins of your tea allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every cup. Whether you prefer a bold black tea or a refreshing green tea, there’s something for everyone in the world of tea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. Which country is the largest producer of tea?
A: China is the largest producer of tea in the world.
Q2: What are the top three tea-producing countries?
A: The top three are China, India, and Kenya.
Q3: How does climate influence tea production?
A: Tea thrives in warm, humid climates with well-drained soil.
Q4: What types of tea are primarily produced in India?
A: India is known for its black tea, especially Assam and Darjeeling varieties.
Q5: Why is tea production important for these countries?
A: Tea production significantly boosts their economies and provides employment.
Related Blog:
Top 10 Largest Tea Producing States in India – Complete Guide
Also Read
