Introduction to International Tea Day
May 21 marks the International Tea Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019, celebrating the cultural and social richness of tea while highlighting its economic impact, particularly in countries like China, the global leader in tea production and export.
China’s Dominance in Tea Production and Export
In 2024, China’s tea exports reached a staggering $1.419 billion, solidifying its position as the world’s leading tea exporter. Despite competition from Sri Lanka and Kenya, occupying second and third place respectively, China continues to dominate the global tea market. Green tea, accounting for over 50% of total exports, remains the most sought-after variety, with key international markets including India, Russia, the United States, and Japan.
China’s Diverse Tea Varieties
Home to more than 1,500 tea varieties, China’s teas fall into six main categories: green, white, oolong, black, yellow, and dark or pu-erh. Perfumed teas, such as jasmine tea, also enjoy significant popularity in global markets.
Impact on Rural Areas and the Economy
The tea industry significantly impacts rural areas in China, especially in Fujian, Zhejiang, Yunnan, Jiangsu, Sichuan, and Guizhou provinces, where over 10 million people are employed in tea production, processing, and commercialization.
Tea Industry Statistics
According to the latest figures from China’s Tea Industry Committee under the International Cooperation Agency, tea imports and exports totaled 428,100 tonnes in 2024, marking a 5.3% annual increase. Exports reached 374,100 tonnes, with notable growth in exports to countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, which increased by 2.22% compared to the previous year.
Tea Industry’s Contribution to Sustainable Development
International Tea Day also encourages reflection on how the tea industry supports sustainable development, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include reducing extreme poverty, combating hunger, empowering women, and preserving terrestrial ecosystems.
China’s National Tea Day vs. International Tea Day
Although China celebrates its National Tea Day on December 15, International Tea Day underscores the global significance of tea, emphasizing its economic and cultural impact.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is International Tea Day? Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019, International Tea Day celebrates tea’s cultural and social richness while highlighting its economic impact.
- Why is China significant in the global tea industry? China leads in tea production and export, with over 1,500 varieties and a $1.419 billion export value in 2024.
- How does the tea industry impact China’s rural areas? More than 10 million people in Fujian, Zhejiang, Yunnan, Jiangsu, Sichuan, and Guizhou provinces work in tea production, processing, and commercialization.
- What are China’s main tea categories? China’s teas fall into six primary categories: green, white, oolong, black, yellow, and dark or pu-erh.
- How does the tea industry support sustainable development? The tea industry contributes to sustainable development by reducing extreme poverty, combating hunger, empowering women, and preserving terrestrial ecosystems.
