Structure of the Green Tea Export Market and West African Preferences China's green tea exports are highly concentrated, with the West African market accounting for over 48% of the total; key destinations include Morocco (22.29%), Senegal, Algeria, Libya, and Mali. West Africa favors Gunpowder tea (grade 3505) and Chunmee tea (grades 9368/41022), requiring a rich, mellow flavor, high infusion durability, a yellow-green liquor, and abundant foam (tea saponin content ≥0.5%). In 2025, export volume to West Africa grew by 18.7% and unit prices rose by 12.3%, while the share of mid-to-high-end products increased from 28% to 35%. In contrast, European and American markets prefer premium green teas (such as Longjing, Biluochun, and Anji White Tea); imports by the Netherlands and Austria surged by 18.91% and 106% respectively in 2025, emerging as new growth drivers. Exporting enterprises must tailor tea blends to specific markets: West Africa prioritizes cost-effectiveness and infusion durability, whereas Europe and the US emphasize aroma and visual appearance.
