Global Market Report on Tea Prices and Sustainability

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global tea market, focusing on production, consumption, and sustainability challenges. It outlines the growth trends in tea production, which has surpassed USD 17 billion annually, with a significant portion produced by smallholder farmers in developing countries. The report details the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tea sector, highlighting disruptions in labor availability, transportation, and increased production costs. It notes that while demand for tea has risen, particularly due to its perceived health benefits, production of plain-quality tea is outpacing demand, leading to lower prices. The report also addresses the challenges posed by climate change, which threatens tea cultivation through erratic weather patterns and increased pest incidence. Adaptation measures being implemented include developing climate-resilient tea varieties and sustainable farming practices. The findings emphasize the need for balancing supply and demand to ensure the sustainability of the tea industry and the livelihoods of those dependent on it.