Albania, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage, has been making strides in the global tea trade. In 2021, the country exhibited notable progress as both an exporter and importer of tea, reinforcing its presence in the international tea market.

Tea Exports from Albania
In 2021, Albania’s tea exports reached a total value of $72.5 thousand, positioning the country as the 119th largest tea exporter in the world. While tea ranked as the 421st most exported product from Albania, it signified an emerging trend in the country’s trade landscape. Albania’s tea exports showcased an upward trajectory, highlighting the growing demand for the beverage.
Italy emerged as the leading destination for Albania’s tea exports, with imports amounting to $36.1 thousand. Australia and the United States followed closely, with imports of $15.6 thousand and $12.1 thousand, respectively. Serbia and the United Kingdom were also notable markets, with imports of $3.19 thousand and $1.52 thousand, respectively. These figures underscore Albania’s efforts in diversifying its tea exports across multiple regions.
Between 2020 and 2021, Albania experienced remarkable export growth to Australia, with an increase of $15.6 thousand. Serbia and the United Kingdom also demonstrated significant growth as tea destinations, with increases of $3.02 thousand and $1.52 thousand, respectively. This positive export trend points to Albania’s success in tapping into new markets and expanding its tea trade footprint.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Asia | Turkey | 11 |
Europe | Belgium | 329 |
Europe | Denmark | 65 |
Europe | France | 375 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 1,519 |
Europe | Hungary | 765 |
Europe | Ireland | 43 |
Europe | Italy | 36,061 |
Europe | Malta | 18 |
Europe | Montenegro | 16 |
Europe | Netherlands | 94 |
Europe | Serbia | 3,192 |
Europe | Slovenia | 12 |
Europe | Sweden | 1,356 |
North America | Canada | 968 |
North America | United States | 12,107 |
Oceania | Australia | 15,595 |
Tea Imports into Albania
In 2021, Albania imported a substantial $8.44 million worth of tea, positioning it as the 91st largest tea importer in the world. Tea held a significant position among Albania’s imports, ranking 211th in terms of import value, indicating the country’s growing appetite for this beloved commodity.
Albania’s primary sources of tea imports were Sri Lanka ($8.19 million), Greece ($97.1 thousand), Germany ($94.1 thousand), Italy ($22.8 thousand), and Turkey ($12.7 thousand). These figures illustrate Albania’s preference for sourcing tea from diverse origins, with Sri Lanka standing out as the dominant tea supplier.
Between 2020 and 2021, Albania witnessed a substantial increase in tea imports from Sri Lanka, amounting to an impressive $4.72 million. Germany and Greece also demonstrated significant growth as tea suppliers, with imports increasing by $36.2 thousand and $19 thousand, respectively. This upward trend emphasizes Albania’s efforts in diversifying its tea imports and strengthening trade ties with key suppliers.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Kenya | 6,555 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 8,186,974 |
Asia | Pakistan | 108 |
Asia | Turkey | 12,731 |
Europe | Austria | 598 |
Europe | Belgium | 320 |
Europe | Germany | 94,099 |
Europe | France | 12 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 4,154 |
Europe | Greece | 97,068 |
Europe | Croatia | 6,987 |
Europe | Italy | 22,828 |
Europe | North Macedonia | 125 |
Europe | Netherlands | 664 |
Europe | Poland | 2,203 |
Europe | Serbia | 4,591 |
Europe | Slovenia | 391 |
Conclusion
Albania’s tea trade in 2021 showcases a story of growth and opportunity, with both exports and imports playing pivotal roles in the country’s trade landscape. As Albania capitalizes on the fastest-growing export markets and fosters closer trade partnerships with emerging suppliers, the nation is well-positioned to continue its journey as a significant player in the global tea market.
With its rich tea culture, growing demand, and strategic trade position, Albania is carving a niche for itself in the international tea trade. By nurturing its tea sector and embracing sustainable sourcing practices, Albania can thrive as a prominent player in the global tea market, contributing to the country’s cultural heritage and economic prosperity.
Data: BACI