Understanding Tea

Liberia’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports

Tea, a beverage cherished for its soothing qualities and rich cultural significance, has also become a part of Liberia’s international trade landscape. In 2021, Liberia showcased its involvement in the global tea market as both an exporter and an importer of this beloved product.

Tea Imports Exports

Liberia’s Tea Exports

In 2021, Liberia’s tea exports amounted to $2.47 thousand, positioning the country as the 163rd largest tea exporter in the world. While tea didn’t claim the top spot among Liberia’s export commodities, it ranked as the 207th most exported product from the country. Liberia’s tea found its primary destinations in Seychelles and Belarus, contributing to the nation’s participation in the global tea market.

Among these destinations, Seychelles emerged as the leading recipient of Liberia’s tea exports, importing tea valued at $2.38 thousand. Belarus followed with $99, showcasing the country’s appreciation for Liberia’s tea offerings.

One intriguing aspect of Liberia’s tea export market was the notable growth observed in certain destinations between 2020 and 2021. Seychelles and Belarus were the fastest-growing export markets for Liberia during this period, with both nations showing increased demand for Liberian tea.

ContinentCountryTrade Value
AfricaSeychelles2,375
EuropeBelarus99
Table: Where Does Liberia Export Its Tea (2021)

Liberia’s Tea Imports

In contrast to its modest tea exports, Liberia’s tea imports were substantial in 2021, reaching a total of $1.74 million. This positioned the country as the 131st largest tea importer in the world that year, and tea ranked as the 185th most imported product in Liberia. The demand for tea within the country was evident, as Liberia heavily relied on imports to meet domestic consumption needs and cater to diverse preferences.

Liberia primarily sourced its tea imports from Sri Lanka, China, Morocco, Turkey, and Kenya. Sri Lanka emerged as the primary source, accounting for the majority of the import value with an impressive $790 thousand. China followed with $674 thousand, while Morocco, Turkey, and Kenya also played significant roles in the tea import market, contributing $117 thousand, $50.1 thousand, and $30.8 thousand, respectively.

Noteworthy Growth in Tea Imports

One interesting aspect of Liberia’s tea import market was the significant growth observed in specific markets between 2020 and 2021. China, Sri Lanka, and Kenya were the fastest-growing import markets for tea in Liberia during this period.

China, in particular, displayed remarkable growth, with an increase of $459 thousand in tea imports to Liberia. Sri Lanka followed suit with $254 thousand in additional tea imports, while Kenya also showed promising growth with $30.8 thousand.

ContinentCountryTrade Value
AfricaKenya30,788
AfricaMorocco116,536
AsiaUnited Arab Emirates22,856
AsiaChina673,826
AsiaIndia6,756
AsiaLebanon4,042
AsiaSri Lanka790,477
AsiaTurkey50,087
EuropeGermany76
EuropeNetherlands121
EuropeRussia626
EuropeUkraine500
North AmericaUnited States16,740
South AmericaBrazil21,852
Table: Where Does Liberia Import Its Tea (2021)

Conclusion

Liberia’s involvement in the global tea market, though modest, reflects its appreciation for this beloved beverage. As a tea exporter, Liberia enjoys favorable trade relations with Seychelles and Belarus, who value the quality of Liberian tea. Simultaneously, as a tea importer, the country relies significantly on Sri Lanka, China, and Kenya to meet domestic demand for tea.

As Liberia 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, Liberia can further develop its tea trade, promoting economic growth and delighting its people with the flavors and comforts of tea.

Data: BACI

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