India’s tea exports have seen a significant 93% growth over the past ten years, climbing from Rs 4,509 crore in FY2013-14 to Rs 8,719 crore in FY2025-26, as per Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Highlighting the global popularity of Indian tea on International Tea Day, Goyal emphasized that tea holds a special place in the daily lives, culture, and traditions of India. Describing tea as an emotion, Goyal expressed how it transcends being just a beverage to become an integral part of conversations and traditions across the country.
Goyal, in a social media post, praised the diverse flavors and aromas that different regions of India bring to a cup of tea, ranging from Darjeeling’s hills to Assam’s valleys and the Nilgiris’ plantations. He noted that Indian tea has made significant inroads into international markets, attributing this success to enhanced quality standards and continuous efforts by the Tea Board Of India to showcase India’s rich tea heritage globally. Additionally, Goyal shared that the Indian tea industry in the organized sector employs around 12 lakh workers, with women constituting about 58% of this workforce, marking their significant contribution to the sector’s growth.
In the fiscal year 2025, India exported a total of 263 million kg of tea, generating a total value of Rs 7,818 crore, according to DGCIS data. Goyal highlighted the role of women in driving India’s tea sector growth, emphasizing the nation’s consistent global recognition for its aromatic teas and increasing export figures.
