Mauritius, known for its diverse economic activities, plays a role in the global tea trade as both an exporter and importer.

Mauritius’ Tea Exports
In 2021, Mauritius exported tea worth $823,000, securing its position as the 84th largest exporter of tea in the world. Tea stood as the 204th most exported product from Mauritius during the same year. The primary destinations for Mauritius’ tea exports were France, with exports valued at $561,000, followed by China at $121,000, Australia at $33,400, Switzerland at $25,400, and the United Kingdom at $22,700.
Emerging Export Markets
Mauritius experienced notable growth in its tea exports between 2020 and 2021. The fastest-growing export markets for Mauritian tea during this period were France, witnessing an increase of $188,000, followed by Switzerland with a rise of $25,300, and the United Arab Emirates with a notable growth of $21,200. These emerging markets signify the expanding demand and recognition of Mauritian tea globally.
Where Does Mauritius Export Its Tea (2021)
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Cote d’Ivoire | 153 |
Africa | Seychelles | 3,721 |
Africa | South Africa | 2,457 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 21,234 |
Asia | China | 121,384 |
Asia | Japan | 13,633 |
Asia | Turkey | 12 |
Asia | Chinese Taipei | 3,411 |
Europe | Austria | 46 |
Europe | Belgium | 207 |
Europe | Switzerland | 25,386 |
Europe | Czechia | 20 |
Europe | Germany | 7,255 |
Europe | Finland | 234 |
Europe | France | 560,810 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 22,707 |
Europe | Ireland | 3,221 |
Europe | Luxembourg | 2,118 |
Europe | Slovakia | 1,847 |
North America | Canada | 86 |
Oceania | Australia | 33,354 |
Tea Imports into Mauritius
In 2021, Mauritius imported tea valued at $1.22 million, ranking it as the 141st largest importer of tea worldwide. Tea ranked as the 458th most imported product in Mauritius during the same year. Mauritius primarily sourced tea imports from countries such as Kenya, with imports worth $438,000, followed by Poland at $196,000, France at $183,000, Malaysia at $102,000, and India at $80,800.
Emerging Import Markets
Mauritius’ tea imports experienced significant growth between 2020 and 2021. The fastest-growing import markets for tea in Mauritius during this period were Poland, showcasing an impressive increase of $73,700, followed by Malaysia with a notable growth of $65,800, and Germany with a rise of $10,800. These figures reflect the evolving patterns of tea consumption and the emergence of new trade partners for Mauritius.
Tariffs on Tea
In 2019, Mauritius had an average tariff rate of 14% on tea imports. The countries with the highest import tariffs for tea in Mauritius were Burundi, Benin, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, and Cote d’Ivoire, all imposing a Most Favored Nation duty rate treatment of 15%. These tariff rates shape the tea trade landscape in Mauritius and influence the flow of tea imports into the country.
Where Does Mauritius Import Its Tea (2021)
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Botswana | 6 |
Africa | Egypt | 4,522 |
Africa | Kenya | 438,145 |
Africa | South Africa | 10,491 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 2,036 |
Asia | Bangladesh | 2,973 |
Asia | China | 51,019 |
Asia | Hong Kong | 1,487 |
Asia | Indonesia | 1,454 |
Asia | India | 80,836 |
Asia | Iran | 247 |
Asia | Japan | 17,842 |
Asia | South Korea | 375 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 29,961 |
Asia | Malaysia | 102,131 |
Asia | Pakistan | 3,556 |
Asia | Singapore | 16,264 |
Asia | Thailand | 2,582 |
Asia | Turkey | 194 |
Asia | Vietnam | 23,700 |
Asia | Chinese Taipei | 20,570 |
Europe | Belgium | 633 |
Europe | Germany | 14,101 |
Europe | France | 183,407 |
Europe | United Kingdom | 35,431 |
Europe | Croatia | 118 |
Europe | Ireland | 106 |
Europe | Netherlands | 1,329 |
Europe | Poland | 195,626 |
Oceania | Australia | 1,108 |
Vietnam Tea: A Popular and Reliable Choice for Mauritius’s Imports
Vietnam tea has consistently been a popular and trustworthy choice for Mauritius, thanks to its premium quality and competitive pricing. In 2021, Mauritius imported tea from Vietnam with a total value of $23,700, marking a 6% increase compared to the previous year. Vietnam holds a significant position as an important supplier of tea to Mauritius, catering to its tea requirements effectively.
Conclusion
Mauritius demonstrates its participation in the global tea trade through both tea exports and imports. With notable tea exports to countries like France, China, and Australia, Mauritius continues to showcase its tea quality and establish itself as a significant exporter. Simultaneously, tea imports from countries like Kenya and Poland highlight Mauritius’ role as an active participant in regional and international tea trade dynamics. Understanding the tariff landscape, particularly with countries imposing higher import tariffs like Burundi and Benin, is crucial for navigating Mauritius’ tea trade. As Mauritius continues to engage in the tea market, monitoring these trends and tariff policies will be essential for sustained growth and success in the global tea industry.
Data: BACI