Understanding Tea
Ghana’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports
Tea, a beverage cherished around the globe, has become a significant player in Ghana’s international trade. In 2021, Ghana demonstrated its active engagement in the global tea market, showcasing its prowess as both an exporter and an importer of this beloved product.
Ghana’s Tea Exports
In 2021, Ghana’s tea exports reached a value of $46,000, positioning the country as the 124th largest tea exporter in the world. Although tea may not have occupied the top position among Ghana’s export commodities, its presence was evident, ranking as the 409th most exported product from the country. Burkina Faso, Canada, Togo, the United States, and the Netherlands emerged as the main destinations for Ghana’s tea exports, contributing to the nation’s active participation in the global tea market.
Among these destinations, Burkina Faso emerged as the leading recipient of Ghana’s tea exports, importing tea worth $18,500. Canada followed closely behind with $8,400, while Togo, the United States, and the Netherlands also played significant roles, importing tea valued at $7,670, $7,540, and $955, respectively.
One interesting aspect of Ghana’s tea export market was the notable growth observed in certain destinations between 2020 and 2021. Burkina Faso, the United States, and Canada were the fastest-growing export markets for Ghana during this period. Burkina Faso, in particular, displayed remarkable growth with an increase of $18,500 in tea imports from Ghana. The United States followed suit with $4,990, while Canada showed promising growth with $2,990 in additional tea imports.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Burkina Faso | 18,488 |
| Africa | Togo | 7,673 |
| Africa | South Africa | 266 |
| Asia | Cyprus | 114 |
| Asia | South Korea | 40 |
| Asia | Sri Lanka | 41 |
| Europe | Austria | 75 |
| Europe | Belgium | 508 |
| Europe | Switzerland | 235 |
| Europe | Czechia | 20 |
| Europe | Denmark | 7 |
| Europe | Spain | 171 |
| Europe | Finland | 121 |
| Europe | France | 885 |
| Europe | Ireland | 203 |
| Europe | Malta | 26 |
| Europe | Netherlands | 955 |
| Europe | Sweden | 111 |
| North America | Canada | 8,402 |
| North America | United States | 7,543 |
| Oceania | New Zealand | 132 |
Ghana’s Tea Imports
In contrast to its modest tea exports, Ghana’s tea imports were substantial in 2021, reaching an impressive $128 million. This positioned the country as the 21st largest tea importer in the world that year, while tea ranked as the 35th most imported product in Ghana. The demand for tea within the country was evident, as Ghana heavily relied on imports to cater to domestic consumption needs and satisfy the preferences of its tea-loving population.
Ghana primarily sourced its tea imports from China, Sri Lanka, India, the United Arab Emirates, and Kenya. China emerged as the primary source, accounting for the majority of the import value with an astounding $103 million. Sri Lanka followed with $13.2 million, while India, the United Arab Emirates, and Kenya also played significant roles in the tea import market, contributing $8.38 million, $1.38 million, and $998,000, respectively.
Similar to the export market, Ghana’s tea imports also experienced notable growth in specific markets between 2020 and 2021. China, India, and Sri Lanka were the fastest-growing import markets for tea in Ghana during this period. Ghana witnessed a substantial increase of $23.5 million in tea imports from China, followed by India with $5.14 million, and Sri Lanka with $4.98 million.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Kenya | 997,588 |
| Africa | Tanzania | 89 |
| Africa | South Africa | 18,665 |
| Asia | United Arab Emirates | 1,381,587 |
| Asia | China | 103,309,909 |
| Asia | India | 8,376,365 |
| Asia | Israel | 1,000 |
| Asia | Sri Lanka | 13,242,714 |
| Asia | Pakistan | 16,274 |
| Asia | Saudi Arabia | 800 |
| Asia | Singapore | 1,393 |
| Asia | Turkey | 2,512 |
| Asia | Chinese Taipei | 609 |
| Europe | Belgium | 292 |
| Europe | Germany | 5,083 |
| Europe | Denmark | 19 |
| Europe | France | 4,928 |
| Europe | United Kingdom | 176,958 |
| Europe | Italy | 3,671 |
| Europe | Netherlands | 10,880 |
| Europe | Poland | 12,081 |
| North America | Canada | 1,571 |
| North America | United States | 201,127 |
Conclusion
Ghana’s participation in the global tea market demonstrates the nation’s appreciation for this beloved beverage. As a tea exporter, Ghana has found favor in key markets such as Burkina Faso, Canada, and the United States. Simultaneously, as a tea importer, the country relies significantly on China, Sri Lanka, and India to meet domestic demand for tea.
As Ghana continues to navigate the tea trade landscape, nurturing trade relationships with key partners and staying attuned to market trends will be essential. With dedication and foresight, Ghana can further develop its tea trade, promoting economic growth and delighting its people with the joys of tea.
Data: BACI