Nestled in the heart of South America, Bolivia has been steadily making its presence felt in the global tea trade. Despite being ranked as the 150th largest exporter of tea in 2021, Bolivia’s commitment to the tea industry remains unwavering.

Tea Exports from Bolivia
In 2021, Bolivia’s tea exports reached a value of $6.3k, signifying the country’s participation in the global tea market. While not among the top exporters, Bolivia’s dedication to tea production and exportation cannot be overlooked.
Bolivia’s primary tea export destinations included Chile, where tea exports amounted to $2.79k, and the United States, which imported $2.32k worth of Bolivian tea. Sweden, Canada, and the Netherlands also featured among the notable destinations, importing $777, $371, and $21 worth of tea, respectively.
The remarkable growth in Bolivia’s tea exports was observed in Chile, the United States, and Sweden between 2020 and 2021. Bolivia experienced a substantial increase in tea exports to Chile, amounting to an impressive $2.35k. The United States and Sweden also demonstrated growing interest, importing an additional $2.32k and $777 worth of Bolivian tea, respectively.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 9 |
Europe | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 8 |
Europe | Netherlands | 21 |
Europe | Sweden | 777 |
North America | Canada | 371 |
North America | United States | 2,320 |
South America | Chile | 2,792 |
Tea Imports to Bolivia
While Bolivia endeavors to share its tea with the world, it also embraces the diverse tea offerings from other nations. In 2021, Bolivia imported $1.45M worth of tea, earning the country the 138th position among tea-importing nations. With tea imports ranking 436th, Bolivia demonstrates its taste for a variety of tea products.
Argentina emerged as the leading tea supplier to Bolivia, contributing tea imports worth $796k. Colombia and Sri Lanka also played significant roles, providing tea imports valued at $276k and $192k, respectively. China and Chile were also notable contributors, offering tea imports worth $94.8k and $41.2k, respectively.
Over the course of 2020 and 2021, Bolivia witnessed notable growth in tea imports from China, Colombia, and the United States. Compared to the previous year, Bolivia’s tea imports from China experienced a substantial increase of $49.8k, showcasing the nation’s growing affinity for Chinese tea. Additionally, tea imports from Colombia and the United States demonstrated significant growth, contributing an additional $29.7k and $24.7k, respectively.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Morocco | 555 |
Asia | China | 94,802 |
Asia | Japan | 15 |
Asia | South Korea | 420 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 191,732 |
Asia | Thailand | 307 |
Asia | Chinese Taipei | 5,450 |
Europe | Spain | 1,835 |
Europe | France | 25 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 3,022 |
North America | Canada | 763 |
North America | United States | 33,973 |
South America | Argentina | 796,003 |
South America | Brazil | 13 |
South America | Chile | 41,244 |
South America | Colombia | 275,653 |
South America | Peru | 67 |
South America | Paraguay | 2,626 |
Bolivia’s Tea Trade: A Journey of Flavor and Exchange
Bolivia’s tea trade is a tale of determination and exploration as it navigates the global market. While its export ranking may not place it at the forefront of the industry, Bolivia’s dedication to sharing its teas with Chile, the United States, and beyond is commendable. Simultaneously, the nation’s palate embraces teas from Argentina, Colombia, and Sri Lanka, among others, weaving a tapestry of flavors from around the world.
As Bolivia continues its journey in the tea trade, it stands as a participant eager to learn, grow, and foster new connections. With every cup of Bolivian tea savored and every tea imported from distant lands, Bolivia reaffirms its place in the vibrant and diverse world of tea. Through its tea trade, Bolivia extends an invitation to tea enthusiasts worldwide, welcoming them to explore the flavors and stories of this South American gem.
Data: BACI