China Dominates the Global Tea Market

China produces about 53% of the total tea production globally, making it the largest player in this market amidst a clear Asian dominance that includes countries like India, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

This dominance is based on vast agricultural areas and a significant variety of tea types, along with support from supply chains, high domestic demand, and expansion in exports.

Although tea is not considered a strategic commodity in the traditional sense like energy or grains, it remains a widely consumed product and is linked to the cultures and economies of many countries, raising questions about its potential to become a tool of economic influence.

However, the diversity of producers and the multitude of alternatives limit its opportunities to be used as a political leverage on a large scale, compared to more concentrated markets like oil or gas.