Global black tea production so far this calendar has fallen by 1.30 per cent over the corresponding period of 2010, reveals an analysis of the latest information available with trading organisations.

“According to our compilation, global black tea production has slumped to 1460.64 million kg (mkg) from 1479.92 mkg in 2010,” Mr Rajesh Gupta, Director, Global Tea Brokers, told Business Line .

This fall of 19.28 mkg accounts for a decline of 1.30 per cent over last year.

Kenya accounted for the bulk loss of 29.70 mkg with production dipping to 259.77 mkg. Indonesia lost 9.90 mkg to produce 46.50 mkg, Uganda 6.32 mkg to 36.51 mkg, Sri Lanka 6.26 mkg to 269.89 mkg and Malawi 5 mkg to 37.10 mkg. Zimbabwe lost marginally.

India posted a gain of 36.66 mkg to total 729.66 mkg. South Indian production dropped by 4.65 mkg to 175.70 mkg. North India, however, recorded an impressive gain of 41.31 mkg to total 553.96 mkg. Bangladesh and Tanzania posted marginal gains.

India was the only country where tea production has substantially increased but the increase was inadequate to offset the loss from others led by Kenya. If black tea production from China is also considered, the overall production would be more than last year.

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