Namibia’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports

In the heart of Southern Africa lies Namibia, a nation known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. While Namibia’s tea industry might not be as prominent as some of its global counterparts, the country has been making steady strides in the tea trade.

Namibia’s Tea Exports

In 2021, Namibia exported a total of $690 worth of tea, positioning itself as the 174th largest exporter of tea in the world. Tea, though not a major export, held a significant spot as the 759th most exported product from Namibia.

Botswana, Namibia’s neighboring country, emerged as the primary destination for Namibia’s tea exports, with imports worth $579. Angola and France followed suit, importing tea valued at $56 and $42, respectively. Singapore also contributed to the list of major tea destinations, importing Namibian tea worth $13.

Between 2020 and 2021, Namibia experienced growth in specific key tea export markets. Notably, Botswana displayed substantial progress, contributing an additional $428 in tea imports from Namibia. France also showcased notable growth, with an increase of $34, while Singapore maintained steady growth with tea imports valued at an additional $13.

Continent	Country	Trade Value
Africa	Angola	56
Africa	Botswana	579
Asia	Singapore	13
Europe	France	42

Namibia’s Tea Imports

Despite being a tea-producing nation, Namibia also engages in tea imports to cater to diverse taste preferences and supplement its domestic tea consumption. In 2021, Namibia imported tea valued at $3.94 million, securing the 106th spot among the largest tea importers globally. Tea ranked as the 225th most imported product in the country.

South Africa, one of Namibia’s closest trade partners, emerged as the primary source of tea imports, contributing an overwhelming $3.91 million to the country’s import expenditure on tea. Germany, located across the oceans, also played a role as a tea supplier, providing imports valued at $30,800. China, Malaysia, and Turkey completed the list of tea import origins, with imports valued at $2,950, $2,360, and $400, respectively.

Between 2020 and 2021, Namibia’s tea import market experienced notable growth in specific key markets. South Africa displayed significant progress, contributing an additional $244,000 in tea imports. China also demonstrated steady growth, with an increase of $786 in tea imports, while Turkey showcased emerging potential with an additional $400 in tea imports.

Continent	Country	Trade Value
Africa	Angola	5
Africa	Botswana	76
Africa	Eswatini	81
Africa	South Africa	3,907,168
Africa	Zambia	243
Asia	China	2,953
Asia	India	85
Asia	Malaysia	2,360
Asia	Turkey	400
Europe	Germany	30,762

Conclusion

Namibia’s tea trade reflects a tale of both modesty and ambition. As the 174th largest exporter and the 106th largest importer of tea, Namibia showcases its commitment to the tea industry, both as a supplier and a consumer. Despite the relatively small export volumes, Namibia’s tea exports have found their way to Botswana, Angola, France, and Singapore, adding a touch of Namibian tea culture to diverse markets.

Simultaneously, Namibia imports substantial quantities of tea, with South Africa leading the way as the major supplier. The country’s palate for diverse tea flavors is evident in its tea imports from various countries like Germany, China, Malaysia, and Turkey.

Namibia’s tea trade journey is far from over, as the nation continues to navigate the global tea market, leveraging its strengths and exploring new opportunities. As tea enthusiasts worldwide relish a cup of Namibian tea, the country’s presence in the tea trade will surely continue to evolve, enriching the world with a taste of Namibia’s aromatic journey.

Data: BACI