In 2023, Kenya’s tea export volume surged by 16% reaching nearly 523 million kgs from the previous year’s 450 million kgs, as reported by the the Tea Board of Kenya,
This remarkable growth led to record-breaking export earnings of $1.3 billion for the Kenyan tea industry.
Kenya is the largest exporter of black tea globally, contributing over 20% of the world’s tea exports. Its reputation for producing high-quality, robust-flavored black tea has positioned it as a leader in the international tea trade. The tea sector plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy, contributing over 4% of the country’s GDP and providing employment to over 600,000 smallscale farmers.
A significant portion of Kenyan tea is traded through the Mombasa Tea Auction, the largest tea auction in Africa and a key trading hub globally. The auction provides a transparent marketplace for buyers and sellers, where tea is sold in grades such as BP1, PF1, PD, and Dust1.
In 2023, the Mombasa Tea Auction facilitated sales exceeding $1.2 billion, attracting buyers from over 30 countries. Kenya’s dominance in tea production is also attributed to its conducive climate, characterized by well-distributed rainfall and rich volcanic soils. The country produces over 500 million kilograms of tea annually, with major importers including Pakistan, Egypt, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. Loose tea continues to be the preferred export format, ensuring versatility for manufacturers and distributors in blending and packaging.
Kenyan tea remains a vital component of global tea consumption due to its consistent quality, competitive pricing, and adherence to international food safety standards. This strategic advantage has enabled Kenya to penetrate emerging markets such as North Africa, Iran, and Iraq while maintaining strongholds in traditional markets like Pakistan and Egypt. Moreover, the Kenyan tea industry has embraced sustainability and ethical practices, with increasing certification by organizations like Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade. This focus has further enhanced Kenya’s global reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
