Sri Lanka sees strong growth in tea export volumes and values, with Iraq and Libya emerging as top buyers
Sri Lanka’s Tea Exports Continue Upward Momentum
Sri Lanka’s tea exports showed solid growth in May 2025, with both volume and value on the rise despite ongoing global economic volatility. According to Forbes & Walker Research, total tea exports reached 21.87 million kilos, up by 2.42 million kilos from May 2024’s 19.45 million kilos.
The average Free on Board (FOB) value also climbed to Rs. 1,804.31 per kilo, reflecting a Rs. 32.07 year-on-year increase, while in dollar terms the price rose by $0.12, signaling steady international demand.
From January to May 2025, cumulative tea exports rose to 103.28 million kilos, up 5.12 million kilos from the same period last year. Most product categories contributed to the rise, except for bulk tea, which continues to struggle with pricing and shipping pressures.
While the average FOB value dropped slightly in rupees (by Rs. 15.87), it rose in dollars by $0.15 per kilo, indicating a favorable currency effect.
Iraq emerged as the top buyer of Ceylon Tea, importing 14.47 million kilos (an 18% YoY increase), followed by Libya with 9.42 million kilos (a 324% surge). Russia, once a leading market, fell to third place with 9.12 million kilos, a 15% decline.
Other top importers included the UAE, Iran, Türkiye, Chile, China, Saudi Arabia, and Germany—highlighting the global diversity of demand for Sri Lanka’s iconic tea.
Despite challenges, Sri Lanka’s tea industry continues to demonstrate resilience, with tea exports remaining a key contributor to the nation’s export earnings.