Bangladesh’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports

Bangladesh, a nation known for its vibrant culture and scenic landscapes, has been making significant strides in the global tea trade. In 2021, the country demonstrated impressive growth as both an importer and exporter of tea, solidifying its position in the international tea market.

Tea Exports from Bangladesh

In 2021, Bangladesh’s tea exports reached a commendable value of $2.77 million, positioning the country as the 66th largest tea exporter globally. Bangladesh’s tea export industry witnessed remarkable growth, contributing significantly to the country’s trade portfolio. The data further revealed that tea was the 192nd most exported product from Bangladesh, underscoring its increasing prominence in the country’s export mix.

Among the destinations for Bangladesh’s tea exports, the United Arab Emirates emerged as the leading market, importing tea worth $949,000. The United States followed closely, with imports totaling $934,000, while Pakistan, Italy, and Kuwait accounted for $597,000, $73,900, and $69,900, respectively. These figures highlighted Bangladesh’s success in diversifying its tea export destinations.

Between 2020 and 2021, Bangladesh experienced remarkable growth in its tea exports to the United States, with an impressive increase of $309,000. Italy and Greece also demonstrated substantial growth as tea destinations, with increases of $37,000 and $13,900, respectively. This positive export trend signified Bangladesh’s increasing popularity as a tea supplier in key international markets.

Continent	Country	Trade Value
Africa	Mauritius	2,973
Asia	United Arab Emirates	948,889
Asia	China	11,704
Asia	Cyprus	11,618
Asia	Georgia	3
Asia	Japan	15,776
Asia	Kuwait	69,901
Asia	Sri Lanka	10
Asia	Mongolia	121
Asia	Malaysia	8,204
Asia	Pakistan	596,774
Asia	Saudi Arabia	271
Asia	Singapore	4,173
Asia	Turkey	187
Europe	Switzerland	4,570
Europe	Czechia	181
Europe	Germany	22,307
Europe	Denmark	20
Europe	Estonia	129
Europe	United Kingdom	4,730
Europe	Greece	14,735
Europe	Italy	73,885
Europe	Netherlands	158
Europe	Sweden	2,074
North America	Canada	35,131
North America	United States	934,347
Oceania	Australia	4,469

Tea Imports into Bangladesh

In 2021, Bangladesh imported a total of $758,000 worth of tea, positioning it as the 153rd largest tea importer globally. Tea held a significant position among Bangladesh’s imported products, ranking 869th in terms of import value, underlining the country’s growing reliance on foreign tea sources.

Bangladesh’s primary sources of tea imports included the United Arab Emirates, contributing a substantial $291,000, followed by Kenya ($239,000), Sri Lanka ($82,700), China ($62,300), and Thailand ($20,900). These figures indicated Bangladesh’s preference for sourcing tea from neighboring countries and other key international partners.

Between 2020 and 2021, Bangladesh witnessed remarkable growth in its tea imports from the United Arab Emirates, with an increase of $197,000. Sri Lanka and Indonesia also demonstrated noteworthy growth as tea suppliers, with imports increasing by $39,100 and $14,300, respectively. These trends highlighted Bangladesh’s adaptability in exploring diverse tea sources.

Continent	Country	Trade Value
Africa	Kenya	238,746
Africa	Rwanda	10,137
Asia	United Arab Emirates	291,194
Asia	China	62,257
Asia	Indonesia	19,687
Asia	India	9,830
Asia	South Korea	693
Asia	Sri Lanka	82,702
Asia	Singapore	10,019
Asia	Thailand	20,935
Asia	Turkey	59
Europe	North Macedonia	313
North America	Canada	169
North America	United States	10,681
Oceania	Australia	874
South America	Brazil	44

Conclusion

Bangladesh’s tea trade in 2021 exemplified a story of success, with both exports and imports playing pivotal roles in the country’s trade landscape. As an exporter, Bangladesh’s growing tea exports to the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and emerging markets like Italy and Greece underscored its importance in the global tea market. On the import front, Bangladesh’s reliance on neighboring countries like the United Arab Emirates and other international partners demonstrates its pragmatic approach to meeting domestic tea demand.

The data for 2021 points towards a promising future for Bangladesh’s tea industry. By capitalizing on the fastest-growing export markets and actively fostering trade relationships with emerging import sources, Bangladesh can further solidify its position in the global tea trade. By nurturing its tea sector and exploring new market opportunities, Bangladesh can 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