May 21 is designated as International Tea Day by the United Nations, marking the significance and value of the drink globally, not just economically but culturally too.
United Nations
Key Facts
- China produces nearly 48% of the world’s tea, making it the largest producer globally.
- India follows as the second largest producer, accounting for 20% of global tea production.
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- World tea consumption reached 6.5 million tonnes in 2022, indicating a growth trend.
- Kenya and Sri Lanka follow China and India in tea production, with 8% and 3% shares respectively.
- China produces over 3 million metric tonnes of tea every year.1
- International Tea Day highlights the cultural and economic significance of tea globally.
Key Stats at a Glance
China's share in global tea production
48%
India's share in global tea production
20%
Kenya's share in global tea production
8%
Turkiye's share in global tea production
4%
Sri Lanka's share in global tea production
3%
World tea consumption in 2022
6.5 million tonnes
China's annual tea production
3 million metric tonnes
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