Lebanon, known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights, has established itself as a notable player in the global tea trade.

Lebanon’s Tea Exports
In 2021, Lebanon ranked as the 89th largest exporter of tea globally, with tea exports valued at $626k. Tea secured the 344th position among Lebanon’s most exported products during the same year. The primary destinations for Lebanese tea exports were Canada, accounting for a significant share of $142k, followed by Germany at $105k, Turkey at $47.3k, Syria at $41k, and Cameroon at $34.2k.
Emerging Export Markets
Lebanon experienced considerable growth in tea exports between 2020 and 2021, reflecting its expanding presence in international tea markets. The fastest-growing export markets for Lebanese tea during this period were Canada, with an impressive increase of $81.2k, followed by Turkey at $47.3k, and Togo at $19.9k. These figures underscore Lebanon’s efforts to diversify its tea export destinations and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
Where Does Lebanon Export Its Tea (2021)
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Angola | 10,482 |
Africa | Benin | 1,601 |
Africa | Burkina Faso | 54 |
Africa | Central African Republic | 314 |
Africa | Cote d’Ivoire | 20,196 |
Africa | Cameroon | 34,172 |
Africa | Republic of the Congo | 9,372 |
Africa | Egypt | 39 |
Africa | Gabon | 1,292 |
Africa | Guinea | 2,119 |
Africa | Gambia | 3,310 |
Africa | Liberia | 4,042 |
Africa | Morocco | 5,464 |
Africa | Mozambique | 562 |
Africa | Nigeria | 6,049 |
Africa | Senegal | 3,234 |
Africa | Sierra Leone | 4,430 |
Africa | Togo | 23,268 |
Africa | Tanzania | 19 |
Africa | South Africa | 5 |
Africa | Zambia | 177 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 8,867 |
Asia | Bahrain | 448 |
Asia | Cyprus | 33,490 |
Asia | Iraq | 2,376 |
Asia | Kuwait | 6,034 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 12 |
Asia | Malaysia | 263 |
Asia | Oman | 1,159 |
Asia | Qatar | 1,695 |
Asia | Saudi Arabia | 17,560 |
Asia | Syria | 41,000 |
Asia | Turkey | 47,250 |
Europe | Belgium | 578 |
Europe | Switzerland | 5,461 |
Europe | Germany | 104,988 |
Europe | Denmark | 696 |
Europe | France | 941 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 21,440 |
Europe | Ireland | 86 |
Europe | Iceland | 49 |
Europe | Luxembourg | 45 |
Europe | Netherlands | 8,434 |
Europe | Poland | 11,617 |
Europe | Sweden | 7,811 |
North America | Belize | 181 |
North America | Canada | 141,718 |
North America | Dominican Republic | 521 |
North America | Trinidad and Tobago | 453 |
North America | United States | 10,489 |
Oceania | Australia | 6,984 |
Oceania | New Zealand | 974 |
South America | Brazil | 4,921 |
South America | Chile | 272 |
South America | Colombia | 6,749 |
South America | Venezuela | 465 |
Tea Imports into Lebanon
In 2021, Lebanon became the 62nd largest importer of tea globally, with tea imports amounting to $22.6M. Tea ranked as the 115th most imported product in Lebanon during the same year. Lebanon primarily sourced its tea imports from Sri Lanka, accounting for a significant share of $14.9M. Other notable import sources included Egypt at $5.14M, the United Arab Emirates at $1.14M, India at $566k, and Vietnam at $316k.
Expanding Import Markets
Lebanon witnessed notable growth in tea imports between 2020 and 2021, indicating a rising demand for a diverse range of tea varieties within the country. The fastest-growing import markets for tea in Lebanon during this period were Egypt, with a significant increase of $1.47M, followed by India at $193k, and the United Arab Emirates at $160k. These figures highlight Lebanon’s commitment to diversifying its tea suppliers and catering to the evolving preferences of tea enthusiasts in the country.
Where Does Lebanon Import Its Tea (2021)
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Egypt | 5,140,793 |
Africa | Kenya | 55 |
Africa | Morocco | 8,773 |
Africa | Madagascar | 35 |
Africa | South Africa | 1,357 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 1,136,277 |
Asia | China | 62,356 |
Asia | India | 565,965 |
Asia | Iran | 121,325 |
Asia | Japan | 2,489 |
Asia | Kuwait | 5,798 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 14,948,747 |
Asia | Oman | 16 |
Asia | Saudi Arabia | 1209 |
Asia | Singapore | 3 |
Asia | Syria | 17,511 |
Asia | Thailand | 1,392 |
Asia | Turkey | 64,606 |
Asia | Vietnam | 316,119 |
Asia | Chinese Taipei | 9,800 |
Europe | Germany | 10,512 |
Europe | Spain | 6,715 |
Europe | France | 27,141 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 14,453 |
Europe | Italy | 89 |
Europe | Luxembourg | 6 |
Europe | Netherlands | 7,798 |
Europe | Poland | 129,342 |
Europe | Portugal | 78 |
Europe | Serbia | 18,963 |
North America | Canada | 973 |
North America | United States | 25,312 |
Oceania | Australia | 2,426 |
South America | Brazil | 16 |
Vietnam Tea: A Popular and Reliable Choice for Lebanon’s Imports
Vietnam tea has consistently been a popular and trustworthy choice for Lebanon, thanks to its premium quality and competitive pricing. In 2021, Lebanon imported tea from Vietnam with a total value of $316,119, marking a 4.2% increase compared to the previous year. Vietnam holds a significant position as an important supplier of tea to Lebanon, catering to its tea requirements effectively.
Conclusion
Lebanon has emerged as a significant player in the global tea trade, demonstrating both export growth and a vibrant market for imports. The country’s successful export partnerships with Canada, Germany, and Turkey, along with its presence in emerging markets like Togo, contribute to the rising figures of tea exports. Additionally, Lebanon’s diverse import sources and expanding import markets, including Egypt, India, and the United Arab Emirates, showcase its dedication to meeting the demands of tea enthusiasts for high-quality teas. By capitalizing on market opportunities and fostering trade collaborations, Lebanon can further enhance its position in the global tea industry, bolster its export potential, and promote a thriving tea trade ecosystem. It is crucial for Lebanon to address trade-related challenges and establish favorable trade agreements to ensure sustainable growth and maximize the benefits of its tea trade.
Data: BACI