Inside Kenya's plans to brew success in China’s tea market, the largest in the world

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the country as a global tea powerhouse, with a strategic focus on penetrating the Far East market.

Among the key targets is China, the world's largest tea consumer, which boasts an annual consumption of over 2.3 billion kilograms.

In 2024 China imported tea valued at $141 million approximately Sh18 billion. Kenya, globally renowned for producing high-quality tea, views the Chinese market as a game-changer in its export strategy.

Industry experts believe that capturing even a small fraction of China’s massive tea demand could significantly boost Kenya's export volumes and earnings, providing a much-needed lifeline to tea farmers and the economy.

Growth in Kenya’s Tea Industry

Kenya’s tea industry has witnessed remarkable growth over the past three years, driven by strategic government interventions and favourable external factors. 

At a meeting held today at his official residence in Karen, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining this upward trend. 

The meeting focused on ongoing reforms and strategies for expanding Kenya’s tea export markets. It was attended by senior government officials, agency leaders, and other stakeholders.

Production and export earnings have surged, affirming the sector’s critical role in the country’s economy.

The government has introduced key initiatives to support tea farmers and enhance the industry’s global competitiveness. 

These include providing subsidised fertiliser, establishing common user facilities to drive value addition, and exploring new export markets. 

Favourable weather conditions and a stronger Kenyan shilling have further contributed to this growth.

Tea production increased from 445 million kilos in 2022 to 558 million kilos in 2023, reaching a record 600 million kilos in 2024. 

Export earnings also climbed steadily, rising from Sh138 billion in 2022 to Sh181 billion in 2023, and hitting Sh211 billion in 2024.

Sustainable and profitable tea sector

The government’s push for value addition aims to create premium tea products that can command higher prices in international markets. 

Efforts to penetrate new markets are also expected to broaden the industry’s reach and enhance its resilience against market volatility.

Stakeholders at the briefing expressed optimism about the reforms, praising the government’s proactive approach in addressing challenges such as high production costs and limited market access. 

The measures, they noted, are fostering a more sustainable and profitable tea sector.

With these initiatives and a clear focus on strategic growth, Kenya’s tea industry is poised to maintain its position as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic development.