The Inquiry Is trouble brewing for the worldwide tea industry?
Nov 4, 2025
This discussion features Katharine Burnett, an expert in tea culture, who dives into tea's rich history in China and its rituals. Cristina Larrea explores the nuances of tea processing and the socioeconomic dynamics affecting producers. Harki Sidhu highlights climate challenges facing Indian tea farmers, notably erratic rainfall, while Liberal Seburikoko shares insights on innovative tech like drones helping farmers adapt. The conversation unravels the pressing threats to the tea industry posed by climate change and market disconnect.
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Tea's Global Reach And Cultural Power
- Tea has spread globally from China and adapts to many climates and cultures.
- It is now the world's most consumed beverage after water, showing deep cultural reach.
Processing Creates Tea Variety
- Different teas come from the same Camellia sinensis plant but processing creates the variety.
- Matcha's popularity is a processing-and-marketing success, not a separate crop.
Value Captured Away From Farmers
- The tea value chain concentrates profit in blending and packaging, not on farms.
- Smallholder farmers face high costs and low prices despite global demand.