In the vast landscapes of West Africa lies Niger, a landlocked country known for its rich culture and warm hospitality. While coffee may dominate the hot beverage culture in many parts of the world, Niger has carved a significant niche for itself in the global tea trade.

Niger’s Tea Exports
In 2021, Niger’s tea exports reached a total value of $597,000, positioning the country as the 90th largest exporter of tea in the world. Tea took a prominent spot as the 55th most exported product from Niger.
Among Niger’s tea export destinations, neighboring Nigeria emerged as the primary market, importing tea worth $246,000. Burkina Faso followed closely, contributing tea imports valued at $226,000. Algeria and Cote d’Ivoire also featured prominently as tea destinations, with imports worth $91,900 and $15,200, respectively. Benin completed the list of major tea importers from Niger, contributing $12,600 in tea imports.
Between 2020 and 2021, Niger experienced notable growth in specific key tea export markets. Notably, Cote d’Ivoire demonstrated substantial progress, contributing an additional $12,700 in tea imports from Niger. Benin also showcased emerging potential with an increase of $8,190, while the United Arab Emirates followed suit with tea imports worth an additional $4,960.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Benin | 12,609 |
Africa | Burkina Faso | 226,055 |
Africa | Cote d’Ivoire | 15,174 |
Africa | Algeria | 91,900 |
Africa | Nigeria | 246,174 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 4,963 |
Asia | China | 87 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 11 |
North America | Canada | 145 |
Niger’s Tea Imports
While Niger enjoys a thriving tea export market, it also engages in tea imports to cater to a diverse range of preferences within its own borders. In 2021, Niger imported tea valued at $21.5 million, securing the 64th spot among the largest tea importers globally. Tea ranked as the 25th most imported product in the country.
China, a prominent tea-producing nation, emerged as the primary source of Niger’s tea imports, contributing an overwhelming $16.2 million to the country’s import expenditure on tea. India and Sri Lanka also played significant roles as tea suppliers, providing imports valued at $4.65 million and $225,000, respectively. France and Kenya rounded off the list of tea import origins, with imports worth $209,000 and $160,000, respectively.
Between 2020 and 2021, Niger’s tea import market witnessed remarkable growth in specific key markets. China showcased substantial progress, contributing an additional $4.27 million in tea imports. India followed suit, demonstrating steady growth with an increase of $833,000, while France showcased emerging potential with an additional $92,200 in tea imports.
Continent | Country | Trade Value |
Africa | Kenya | 159,681 |
Africa | Morocco | 665 |
Africa | Nigeria | 315 |
Asia | United Arab Emirates | 20,735 |
Asia | China | 16,165,201 |
Asia | India | 4,651,528 |
Asia | Sri Lanka | 225,069 |
Asia | Turkey | 25,747 |
Europe | Belgium | 7,695 |
Europe | France | 209,016 |
Conclusion
Niger’s tea trade reflects a story of success and ambition. As the 90th largest exporter and the 64th largest importer of tea in the world, Niger’s presence in the global tea market is notable. The country’s tea exports have found their way to neighboring countries like Nigeria and Burkina Faso, enriching their tea cultures with a taste of Niger. Simultaneously, Niger imports substantial quantities of tea, with China leading the way as the major supplier.
As the sun sets over Niger’s picturesque landscapes, the aroma of tea blends into the air, symbolizing the nation’s growing prominence in the global tea trade. As tea enthusiasts worldwide sip on a cup of Niger’s finest, the country’s journey in the tea industry will continue to unfold, one aromatic success at a time.
Data: BACI