Understanding Tea
Tunisia’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports
Tunisia, a North African gem known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, has been actively participating in the global tea trade. In 2021, the country showcased its position as both an exporter and importer of tea, making strides in the international tea market.
Tea Exports from Tunisia
In 2021, Tunisia’s tea exports amounted to $4.87 thousand, positioning the country as the 157th largest tea exporter globally. While Tunisia’s tea export industry may not have been among the top-ranking nations, it represented a significant contribution to the country’s trade portfolio. The data further revealed that tea was the 907th most exported product from Tunisia, indicating its relatively limited prominence in the country’s export profile.
Among the destinations for Tunisia’s tea exports, Germany emerged as the leading market, importing tea worth $3.03 thousand. France followed suit, with imports totaling $883, while the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, and Switzerland accounted for $480, $187, and $105, respectively. These figures demonstrated Tunisia’s efforts to diversify its tea export destinations.
Between 2020 and 2021, Tunisia experienced significant growth in its tea exports to Germany, with an impressive increase of $3.03 thousand. France and the Netherlands also showed notable growth as tea destinations, with increases of $294 and $187, respectively. These upward trends in exports signified Tunisia’s successful foray into emerging markets and its ability to attract a diverse set of tea consumers.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | South Africa | 1 |
| Asia | United Arab Emirates | 480 |
| Asia | China | 21 |
| Asia | South Korea | 34 |
| Asia | Sri Lanka | 30 |
| Asia | Turkey | 18 |
| Europe | Switzerland | 105 |
| Europe | Czechia | 38 |
| Europe | Germany | 3,030 |
| Europe | France | 883 |
| Europe | Hungary | 1 |
| Europe | Netherlands | 187 |
| Europe | Poland | 36 |
| North America | Canada | 4 |
Tea Imports into Tunisia
In 2021, Tunisia imported a total of $13.2 million worth of tea, positioning it as the 79th largest tea importer globally. Tea held a respectable position among Tunisia’s imported products, ranking 286th in terms of import value. The substantial tea imports underscored Tunisia’s reliance on foreign sources to cater to its domestic demand for tea.
Tunisia’s primary sources of tea imports included India, contributing a significant $7.89 million, followed by China ($3.37 million), Sri Lanka ($1.85 million), Poland ($32.1 thousand), and the United Arab Emirates ($18 thousand). These figures indicated Tunisia’s diverse trade partnerships, reflecting its willingness to explore tea varieties from different origins.
Between 2020 and 2021, Tunisia witnessed substantial growth in its tea imports from India, with an increase of $1.98 million. China and Portugal also demonstrated significant growth as tea suppliers, with imports increasing by $126 thousand and $11.5 thousand, respectively. These trends highlighted Tunisia’s adaptability to evolving market dynamics and the country’s inclination towards exploring new tea sources.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Kenya | 70 |
| Asia | United Arab Emirates | 17,982 |
| Asia | China | 3,365,879 |
| Asia | India | 7,889,076 |
| Asia | Sri Lanka | 1,849,156 |
| Asia | Turkey | 330 |
| Asia | Chinese Taipei | 188 |
| Europe | Germany | 1,593 |
| Europe | France | 6,144 |
| Europe | United Kingdom | 2,730 |
| Europe | Italy | 4,705 |
| Europe | Poland | 32,093 |
| Europe | Portugal | 11,465 |
| South America | Brazil | 22 |
Conclusion
Tunisia’s tea trade in 2021 showcased promising developments, with both exports and imports playing a pivotal role in the country’s trade dynamics. As an exporter, Tunisia demonstrated potential in diversifying its tea destinations, with Germany, France, and the Netherlands leading the way. On the import front, Tunisia’s reliance on key partners like India, China, and Sri Lanka underscored the nation’s commitment to satisfying its domestic tea demand with a wide range of sources.
The data for 2021 indicated a bright future for Tunisia’s tea industry, with potential for further growth and exploration of untapped markets. By capitalizing on the fastest-growing export markets and actively engaging with emerging import sources, Tunisia can further consolidate its position in the global tea trade. By fostering strong trade relationships and nurturing its tea sector, Tunisia can position itself as a significant player in the international tea market while satisfying the diverse preferences of its tea-loving consumers.