Top 10 Biggest Tea Producers in the World in 2024

The global tea industry continues to hold immense significance in 2024, playing a crucial role in shaping cultures, economies, and international trade.

As one of the most consumed beverages in the world, tea transcends borders, with production and consumption patterns influencing global markets.

The cultivation of tea also holds cultural importance in various countries, where tea rituals and ceremonies remain integral to traditions.

Furthermore, the industry supports millions of livelihoods, making it a vital contributor to both local economies and global commerce.

Let us talk about countries that are the biggest tea producers.

10. Argentina

Argentina, while not a major producer of traditional teas, is a significant player in the global market for Yerba Mate, producing 70,000 metric tons in 2024. It needs to be said that the production is somewhat smaller than it was in 2023, according to Statista.

Yerba Mate is central to Argentine culture, with its distinctive flavor and shared consumption being a hallmark of social interaction.

The key regions for Yerba Mate production are Misiones and Corrientes, where the plant thrives. Argentina also produces some black tea, though in much smaller quantities.

The country’s Yerba Mate exports are substantial, with major markets in the US, Europe, and South America.

The production of Yerba Mate is enough for Argentina to make the 10th place on this list of the biggest tea producers.

9. Iran

Iran is a massive tea producer, with 84,000 metric tons of tea in 2024, with black tea being the primary type, though some green tea is also cultivated.

The key tea-growing regions of Gilan and Mazandaran provinces are known for their favorable climates for tea cultivation.

Tea is an integral part of daily life in Iran, where it is a central feature of hospitality and social gatherings.

Although Iran is not a major exporter compared to other countries, it still maintains significant tea exports to neighboring countries, reflecting its long-standing tea culture.

8. Japan

Japan is famous for its premium green teas, producing 89,000 metric tons.

The country is particularly known for varieties such as Sencha, Matcha, Gyokuro, and Hojicha, each of them has its characteristics and flavors.

Japan’s tea-growing regions, including Shizuoka, Kagoshima, Uji, and Fukuoka, are celebrated for their ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality green tea.

Kagoshima is particularly known for its massive tea production, according to JapanFood.

Tea holds significant cultural importance in Japan, particularly through the traditional tea ceremony, or Chanoyu, which reflects centuries of tea artistry.

Japan’s green teas are increasingly in demand globally, with key export markets in the US, Germany, and France.

Nobody should be surprised that Japan is among the top tea producers. We have all tried their products at least once.

7. Vietnam

Vietnam’s tea production in 2024 stands at 117,000 metric tons, with green tea being the dominant type.

The country also produces black, oolong, jasmine, and lotus teas, reflecting a diverse tea culture.

Key tea-growing regions like Thái Nguyên, Hà Giang, and Lâm Đồng are known for their high-quality teas, particularly green tea, which is a favorite domestically and internationally.

Vietnam has developed a strong export market, contributing over $162 million in annual revenue, as vov.vn writes.

The country’s tea is gaining popularity in both traditional and emerging markets, including:

• US
• Europe
• the Middle East

6. Indonesia

Indonesia is known for its diverse tea production, generating 157,000 metric tons of tea in 2024.

The country grows a variety of teas, including black, green, jasmine, and oolong, catering to a wide range of preferences.

Indonesia’s tea plantations are primarily located on the islands of Java and Sumatra, where favorable climates support high-quality tea cultivation.

The nation has a robust export market, with significant shipments going to the US, UK, and Russia.

Indonesian tea producers offer numerous products. But the most prominent one is jasmine tea, which is highly prized for its fragrant and floral characteristics.

5. Turkey

In 2024, Turkey produces 175,000 metric tons of tea.

According to the Journal of Ethnic Foods, the majority of which is consumed domestically.

Turkish tea culture is integral to daily life, with traditional tea rituals playing an essential role in social gatherings. The country’s per capita tea consumption is among the highest globally.

While most of its tea is consumed locally, Turkey also exports tea to markets in the US, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Turkish black tea is particularly well-known for its bold flavor, often served in small tulip-shaped glasses.

The country’s tea industry, though primarily focused on domestic consumption, continues to be a symbol of its cultural identity.

4. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka remains famous for its high-quality Ceylon tea, producing 300,000 metric tons in 2024.

The country offers a range of teas, including black, green, and white varieties, known for their distinct flavors and high quality.

Key growing regions such as Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Uva contribute to Sri Lanka’s reputation for premium teas, thanks to their climates and elevations.

Sri Lanka’s tea industry is heavily export-driven, with 95% of production destined for markets such as the Middle East, Japan, and Russia.

The industry generates an impressive $1.2 billion in export earnings annually, making it a vital part of Sri Lanka’s economy.

3. Kenya

Kenya is a dominant player in the African tea industry, producing 305,000 metric tons of tea in 2024.

The country primarily focuses on black tea, particularly the CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) variety, which is highly sought after globally for its strong flavor and robustness.

Key growing regions in Kenya include Kericho, Nandi, and Nyeri, where ideal climatic conditions contribute to high-quality tea production.

Kenya’s tea industry is a major economic pillar, generating over $1 billion in foreign exchange earnings annually.

The country’s tea is exported to significant markets, including Pakistan, Egypt, the UK, and the UAE, underscoring its global relevance.

A couple of years ago, the World Economic Forum released a report on the potential dangers of climate change for Kenyan tea production.

2. India

India ranks as the second-largest out of all tea producers, generating 900,000 metric tons in 2024.

It is renowned for its numerous tea varieties, including Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri teas. Assam and Darjeeling, in particular, are celebrated for their flavors and global appeal.

The country’s major tea-producing regions, Assam, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, are home to sprawling tea estates that drive production.

The industry also plays a crucial economic role, employing to over a million people. With export earnings surpassing $700 million, India’s tea is shipped to major markets such as the US, UK, Iran, and Russia.

With the production currently being at its peak, it is no wonder that the tea garden workers in Bengal’s Terai and Dooars got a 16% bonus.

1. China

China remains the largest producer of tea globally, contributing 2.4 million metric tons of tea in 2024. The nation is famous for its wide variety of teas, with green tea making up a massive 70% of its production.

It is the most common drink in the country, followed by matcha.

Other key types include black, oolong, white, and Pu-erh tea, each with its own cultural and medicinal significance.

China’s major tea-growing regions, Yunnan, Fujian, Sichuan, and Zhejiang, are known for their optimal climate and historical connection to tea production.

Tea plays a pivotal role in Chinese culture, with traditional Gongfu tea rituals symbolizing the deep-rooted respect for the beverage.

In terms of exports, China caters to major global markets, including the US, Japan, and Russia, earning nearly $2 billion annually.

Therefore, none find it surprising that China tops the list of biggest tea producers in the world.

The Bottom Line

The top tea producers in the world demonstrate the global significance of the tea industry, which helps both cultural heritage and economic development.

With production varying from traditional black and green teas to unique varieties like Yerba Mate, these countries shape the future of the global tea market.

Growing trends include increased demand for premium teas and sustainable practices, suggesting a dynamic outlook for the tea industry.