Understanding Tea
Afghanistan’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports
Afghanistan, a nation with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, has been making strides in the global tea trade. In 2021, the country faced challenges as an exporter but demonstrated remarkable growth as an importer of tea, solidifying its position in the international tea market.
Tea Exports from Afghanistan
In 2021, Afghanistan’s tea exports amounted to $18.5 thousand, positioning the country as the 137th largest tea exporter globally. While Afghanistan’s tea export industry faced obstacles, it marked a notable contribution to the country’s trade portfolio. The data further revealed that tea was the 287th most exported product from Afghanistan, indicating its relatively modest prominence in the country’s export mix.
Among the destinations for Afghanistan’s tea exports, the United States emerged as the leading market, importing tea worth $7.31 thousand. Norway followed closely, with imports totaling $6.69 thousand, while Saudi Arabia, Sweden, and Canada accounted for $1.69 thousand, $1.16 thousand, and $1.04 thousand, respectively. These figures highlighted Afghanistan’s efforts to explore diverse international markets for its tea exports.
Between 2020 and 2021, Afghanistan experienced notable growth in its tea exports to the United States, with an impressive increase of $7.31 thousand. Norway and Sweden also demonstrated significant growth as tea destinations, with increases of $3.63 thousand and $1.16 thousand, respectively. These positive export trends signified Afghanistan’s progress in tapping into emerging international markets.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Asia | China | 243 |
| Asia | Saudi Arabia | 1,694 |
| Asia | Turkey | 10 |
| Europe | Austria | 7 |
| Europe | Spain | 178 |
| Europe | Norway | 6,686 |
| Europe | Sweden | 1,160 |
| North America | Canada | 1,036 |
| North America | Cayman Islands | 211 |
| North America | United States | 7,308 |
Tea Imports into Afghanistan
In 2021, Afghanistan imported a total of $30.7 million worth of tea, positioning it as the 53rd largest tea importer globally. Tea held a significant position among Afghanistan’s imported products, ranking 33rd in terms of import value, highlighting the country’s growing reliance on foreign tea sources.
Afghanistan’s primary sources of tea imports included Pakistan and China, contributing a substantial $10.5 million each. Kenya followed closely, with imports totaling $5.16 million, while the United Arab Emirates and India accounted for $2.09 million and $1.42 million, respectively. These figures indicated Afghanistan’s preference for sourcing tea from neighboring countries and other key international partners.
Between 2020 and 2021, Afghanistan witnessed remarkable growth in its tea imports from Pakistan, with an increase of $6.58 million. The United Arab Emirates and Rwanda also demonstrated noteworthy growth as tea suppliers, with imports increasing by $984 thousand and $208 thousand, respectively. These trends highlighted Afghanistan’s adaptability to evolving market dynamics and its willingness to explore diverse tea sources.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Kenya | 5,155,500 |
| Africa | Rwanda | 399,042 |
| Asia | United Arab Emirates | 2,092,647 |
| Asia | China | 10,491,969 |
| Asia | Indonesia | 494,612 |
| Asia | India | 1,419,620 |
| Asia | Pakistan | 10,523,121 |
| Asia | Turkey | 35,411 |
| Asia | Uzbekistan | 12,880 |
| Europe | Netherlands | 15,503 |
| North America | United States | 18,094 |
Conclusion
Afghanistan’s tea trade in 2021 showcased both challenges and triumphs, with imports playing a pivotal role in the country’s trade landscape. As an exporter, Afghanistan’s tea industry faced hurdles but exhibited positive growth trends to the United States, Norway, and Sweden. On the import front, Afghanistan’s reliance on neighboring Pakistan, China, and other key partners underscores its pragmatic approach to meeting domestic tea demand.
The data for 2021 suggests a promising future for Afghanistan’s tea industry. By capitalizing on the fastest-growing import markets and actively fostering trade relationships with emerging export destinations, Afghanistan can further solidify its position in the global tea trade. By nurturing its tea sector and exploring new market opportunities, Afghanistan can overcome export challenges and continue to thrive as a significant player in the international tea market, contributing to the country’s economic growth and strengthening its ties with tea enthusiasts worldwide.
Data: BACI