Bulgaria, a country known for its diverse cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, has been making significant strides in the global tea trade. In 2021, the nation showcased remarkable progress as both an importer and exporter of tea, underscoring its presence in the international tea market.

Tea Exports from Bulgaria
In 2021, Bulgaria’s tea exports amounted to a total value of $529,000, securing the country’s position as the 93rd largest tea exporter in the world. Although tea ranked as the 898th most exported product from Bulgaria, its upward trajectory indicated a promising growth potential. Bulgaria’s tea export industry demonstrated resilience, signifying the growing demand for tea in international markets.
The main destinations for Bulgaria’s tea exports were the Philippines, with imports valued at $78,800, followed by Romania at $60,400. Greece, Germany, and the Netherlands were also significant markets, with imports of $48,000, $44,700, and $37,000, respectively. These figures underscore Bulgaria’s efforts to diversify its tea exports across multiple regions.
Between 2020 and 2021, Bulgaria experienced substantial export growth to Romania, with an increase of $20,100. The United Arab Emirates and Belgium also demonstrated significant growth as tea destinations, with increases of $18,000 and $8,620, respectively. This upward trend highlights Bulgaria’s success in expanding its tea trade to new and emerging markets.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Egypt | 13 |
Africa | Morocco | 1,351 |
Africa | Uganda | 4,202 |
Africa | South Africa | 8,768 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 27,274 |
Asia | Armenia | 1,426 |
Asia | Azerbaijan | 59 |
Asia | Bahrain | 1,112 |
Asia | China | 8,345 |
Asia | Cyprus | 5,169 |
Asia | Georgia | 34,984 |
Asia | Iraq | 3,328 |
Asia | Jordan | 2,781 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 19 |
Asia | Burma | 23 |
Asia | Philippines | 78,832 |
Asia | Qatar | 993 |
Asia | Singapore | 507 |
Asia | Thailand | 25 |
Asia | Turkey | 12 |
Asia | Vietnam | 993 |
Europe | Belgium | 25,068 |
Europe | Switzerland | 13,369 |
Europe | Czechia | 1,493 |
Europe | Germany | 44,651 |
Europe | Denmark | 4,768 |
Europe | Spain | 13,697 |
Europe | Estonia | 318 |
Europe | Finland | 319 |
Europe | Greece | 47,981 |
Europe | Croatia | 3,140 |
Europe | Hungary | 21 |
Europe | Ireland | 2,227 |
Europe | Iceland | 29 |
Europe | Italy | 6,494 |
Europe | Moldova | 357 |
Europe | North Macedonia | 4,160 |
Europe | Malta | 4,588 |
Europe | Netherlands | 36,996 |
Europe | Norway | 3,908 |
Europe | Romania | 60,355 |
Europe | Russia | 6,705 |
Europe | Serbia | 4,576 |
Europe | Slovakia | 3,793 |
Europe | Slovenia | 7,577 |
North America | Canada | 22,393 |
North America | Nicaragua | 46 |
North America | United States | 29,817 |
Oceania | New Zealand | 125 |
Tea Imports into Bulgaria
In 2021, Bulgaria imported a total of $3.65 million worth of tea, positioning it as the 109th largest tea importer in the world. Tea ranked 735th among the country’s most imported products, reflecting the growing significance of tea in Bulgaria’s import landscape.
Sri Lanka emerged as the primary source of Bulgaria’s tea imports, accounting for $1.36 million. The United Arab Emirates, Germany, China, and Poland were also prominent suppliers, with imports of $387,000, $290,000, $265,000, and $261,000, respectively. These figures showcase Bulgaria’s preference for sourcing tea from diverse origins and its commitment to ensuring a varied and high-quality tea supply.
Between 2020 and 2021, Bulgaria witnessed notable import growth from Sri Lanka, amounting to an impressive $357,000. China and Greece also demonstrated significant growth as tea suppliers, with imports increasing by $175,000 and $128,000, respectively. This upward trend underscores Bulgaria’s efforts to explore new tea sources and establish stronger trade relationships.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Kenya | 35,658 |
Africa | Rwanda | 8,713 |
Africa | South Africa | 383 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 387,453 |
Asia | China | 265,136 |
Asia | India | 23,765 |
Asia | Japan | 15,817 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 1,360,549 |
Asia | Syria | 1,953 |
Asia | Turkey | 122,306 |
Asia | Chinese Taipei | 931 |
Europe | Austria | 44,096 |
Europe | Belgium | 9,239 |
Europe | Czechia | 71,610 |
Europe | Germany | 289,587 |
Europe | Denmark | 165 |
Europe | Spain | 74,635 |
Europe | Finland | 3,836 |
Europe | France | 22,115 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 25,724 |
Europe | Greece | 181,575 |
Europe | Croatia | 440 |
Europe | Hungary | 11,830 |
Europe | Ireland | 809 |
Europe | Italy | 55,164 |
Europe | Latvia | 1,218 |
Europe | North Macedonia | 4,247 |
Europe | Netherlands | 96,655 |
Europe | Poland | 260,662 |
Europe | Portugal | 273 |
Europe | Romania | 30,014 |
Europe | Russia | 210,242 |
Europe | Slovakia | 10,980 |
Europe | Slovenia | 5,995 |
Europe | Sweden | 3,293 |
Europe | Ukraine | 10,193 |
Conclusion
Bulgaria’s tea trade in 2021 exemplifies a story of growth and opportunities, with both exports and imports playing vital roles in the country’s trade dynamics. By capitalizing on the fastest-growing export markets and actively exploring new tea suppliers, Bulgaria is poised to further strengthen its position in the global tea market.
With its deep-rooted tea culture, rising demand, and strategic trade position, Bulgaria is well-positioned to continue its journey as a prominent player in the international tea trade. By fostering sustainable sourcing practices and nurturing its tea sector, Bulgaria can contribute to the preservation of its cultural heritage while thriving in the global tea market.
Data: BACI