Find Global Tea Buyers, Importers, Distributors
Connect with verified Tea importers, wholesalers, and bulk buyers worldwide. These trusted partners are actively sourcing from reliable suppliers. Start growing your sales and global reach today!

Rakuten

Jd

WALGREEN CO.

Lazada
About markets & trends in the Tea industry
The global tea industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences and increasing awareness of health benefits. Tea consumption is expanding beyond traditional markets, with emerging regions adopting tea as a staple beverage.
Health trends such as the demand for antioxidant-rich beverages and functional teas are fueling market growth. Additionally, sustainability initiatives and organic certifications are becoming key purchasing factors for buyers.
Consumption patterns are shifting, with premium and niche tea varieties gaining traction. Regions like North America and Europe are seeing a surge in demand for artisanal and specialty teas, while Asia continues to dominate traditional tea consumption. Functional teas, including herbal blends and wellness-focused options, are also on the rise.
Which countries import the most Tea?
Tea is a globally traded commodity, with certain countries leading in imports due to high demand and consumption rates.
- Europe: Germany, the UK, and Russia are major importers, with Germany accounting for a significant share of specialty tea imports.
- Asia: Pakistan and Japan are key players, with Pakistan being one of the largest importers of black tea.
- Middle East: The UAE and Saudi Arabia are prominent importers, driven by cultural preferences and a growing tea culture.
- North America: The United States imports a variety of teas, with a focus on premium and organic options.
Traditional markets like the UK and Japan remain strong, while emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa are showing increased demand for diverse tea varieties.
Tea buyer segments and preferences
Tea buyers vary widely, each with specific needs and preferences that manufacturers must address to succeed in the market.
- Retail Chains: Require consistent quality and packaging that appeals to end consumers. Bulk orders are common.
- Specialty Stores: Focus on premium, organic, and niche tea varieties. Unique packaging and certifications are often required.
- Foodservice Industry: Includes cafes, restaurants, and hotels. They prioritize cost-effective bulk purchases and reliable supply chains.
- Online Retailers: Demand innovative packaging and teas that cater to health-conscious and niche markets.
- Distributors: Act as intermediaries, requiring a wide range of tea types to cater to diverse client bases.
How to export Tea internationally
Exporting tea internationally involves several critical steps to ensure compliance and successful market entry.
- Market Research: Identify target markets and understand their preferences and regulations.
- Documentation: Prepare essential documents like invoices, certificates of origin, and phytosanitary certificates.
- Certifications: Obtain necessary certifications such as organic or fair trade, depending on market requirements.
- Packaging & Labeling: Ensure compliance with local packaging and labeling standards.
- Logistics: Partner with reliable freight forwarders for efficient shipping and customs clearance.
- Quality Assurance: Maintain consistent product quality to meet buyer expectations and avoid rejections.
Tea export compliance & certifications
Compliance with export regulations and certifications is essential for accessing international tea markets.
European Union:- EU Organic Certification
- Fair Trade Certification
- Compliance with EU food safety standards (e.g., pesticide residue limits)
- USDA Organic Certification
- FDA Food Facility Registration
- Adherence to FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act)
- Halal Certification
- Compliance with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards
Common issues include incorrect labeling, pesticide residues, and non-compliance with import regulations. Regular audits and quality checks can help avoid these problems.
Packaging & labeling requirements for Tea
Proper packaging and labeling are crucial for tea exports, ensuring compliance and appealing to buyers.
Preferred packaging types vary by buyer segment. Retail chains often prefer individual sachets or tins, while bulk buyers opt for large bags or cartons.
Recommended materials include:
- Biodegradable materials for eco-conscious markets
- Aluminum foil for freshness preservation
- Glass jars for premium teas
Mandatory label elements include:
- Product name and net weight
- Country of origin
- Ingredients list
- Certifications (e.g., organic, fair trade)
- Batch number and expiry date
What's the average wholesale price for Tea?
Wholesale tea prices vary based on grade, origin, and market demand. Prices are typically quoted as FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
- Black Tea: $2.50–$4.00 per kg (FOB India)
- Green Tea: $3.00–$5.50 per kg (FOB China)
- Herbal Tea: $4.00–$7.00 per kg (FOB Egypt)
- Premium/Specialty Tea: $10.00–$30.00 per kg (FOB Japan)
| Grade/Type | Price Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Tea | $2.50–$4.00 | per kg | FOB India, standard grades |
| Green Tea | $3.00–$5.50 | per kg | FOB China, basic to mid-grade |
| Herbal Tea | $4.00–$7.00 | per kg | FOB Egypt, includes chamomile |
| Premium Tea | $10.00–$30.00 | per kg | FOB Japan, artisanal varieties |
How to find Tea buyers, importers, distributors
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FAQs
What's included in the Tea buyer database?
The Tea buyer database consists of verified contact information of importers, distributors, wholesalers, and retail chains that are actively sourcing tea. Each entry typically features the company name, country, buyer type, contact person (when available), email, phone number, and notes on product focus (e.g., green tea, black tea, organic, flavored, bulk). Many entries also include LinkedIn profiles or websites for easy outreach.
What countries import the most Tea?
The leading tea importing countries include Russia, the United States, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, and Egypt. The U.S. and Russia are among the top non-Asian markets, with a significant demand for premium and organic tea varieties. Emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa are also seeing steady growth in tea imports.
What's the minimum order quantity buyers expect?
Minimum order quantities (MOQs) vary by buyer type. Retail chains and importers usually expect MOQs of 500-1000 kg per SKU, while distributors and wholesalers may order larger quantities in bulk. Foodservice buyers often start with smaller volumes, particularly for first-time orders. Exporters offering flexible MOQs are more likely to secure trial orders.
Should I offer FOB or CIF pricing when exporting Tea?
Both FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) are common in the tea trade. FOB pricing is preferred by seasoned buyers who manage their own logistics. CIF pricing is appropriate for newer buyers or those who prefer a turnkey delivery option. Offering both options allows you to cater to a broader range of international buyers.
What is the HS code for Tea?
The main HS code for tea exports is 0902, which covers tea, whether or not flavored. This category includes the following subcodes: Green Tea – 090210 (Includes green tea in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3 kg) and Black Tea – 090240 (Covers black fermented and partly fermented tea). It's crucial to verify the specific subheading with your customs broker or local trade authority. Correct HS classification ensures smoother customs clearance and proper tariff application.
How do I contact the Tea buyers from the database?
You can contact the tea buyers directly using the contact details provided in the database — typically via email, phone, or LinkedIn. Start with a short, personalized introduction, include your company info, tea product catalog, certifications (e.g., Organic, Fair Trade), and ask if they're currently sourcing new suppliers. Following up after 5–7 days is recommended for better response rates.

