In the first quarter of 2024, Kenya’s tea exports surged by 19%, reaching 155.8 million kg compared to 131.1 million kg in the same period last year, according to a report from the Tea Board of Kenya (TBK). This growth was driven by increased shipments to key global markets, reflecting rising demand both in traditional markets and emerging economies.
The TBK highlighted Pakistan as the top destination for Kenyan tea, importing 50.8 million kg during this period, a notable increase from 39.3 million kg in 2023. Other significant buyers included Britain, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, underscoring Kenya’s diversified tea export portfolio.
Chad emerged as a noteworthy new market, showing consistent growth in imports of Kenya’s tea. This diversification is crucial for Kenya’s tea sector, ensuring stability and growth amidst changing global trade dynamics.
In 2023, Kenya’s tea industry saw a substantial increase in export volume, rising from 450.33 million kg to 522.92 million kg. This resulted in record earnings of 180.57 billion shillings (approximately 1.4 billion U.S. dollars), marking the highest-ever revenue generated by the sector.
Willy Mutai, CEO of TBK, hailed these achievements as historic for Kenya’s tea industry, emphasizing the sector’s pivotal role as a top foreign exchange earner alongside tourism and horticulture. Kenya’s strategic focus includes ramping up value-added tea exports from 5% in 2023 to 50% by 2027, aiming to enhance economic resilience and sustainability.
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