Darjeeling Tea Markets outside India

Darjeeling tea holds a revered spot not just in India, but also in many corners of the world. It's also India's only geographically indicated (GI) product, safeguarded by a WTO patent. Every year, a substantial portion of the Darjeeling tea is shipped overseas to cater to the global demand.  Here, we explore some of the foreign countries where Darjeeling tea is particularly popular: 

  • The United Kingdom (UK):

The UK is known to have a long-standing love for tea. Darjeeling tea is one of the favourites for tea lovers across the nation. The floral and muscatel notes are particularly popular amongst the tea connoisseurs in the country. Darjeeling tea has carved a niche for itself in the refined settings of afternoon teas and high-end hotels across the UK. It's not uncommon to find this exquisite tea gracing the silver teapots of London's luxurious hotels and restaurants. Darjeeling tea has found favour among royalty and connoisseurs in the UK.  It's said that Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed the finest Assam and Darjeeling teas. The fondness of Queen Elizabeth II for Darjeeling tea was highlighted when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted her some during a visit to Buckingham Palace.

  1. Germany:

Germany has a unique tea culture. While it is predominantly a coffee culture, it holds a significant place for Darjeeling tea in its heart. Teekampagne, headquartered in Potsdam, Germany, is the world's largest importer of Darjeeling loose leaf tea. It is also the largest mail-order tea business in Germany. Darjeeling tea is often available in specialty tea shops in Germany and is highly regarded for its quality and unique flavour profile.

  • Japan: 

While Japan has always been big on green tea, it's warming up to the unique muscatel notes of Darjeeling tea too. The phrase "Royal Milk Tea" is quite the buzz in Japan, and it's all about mixing in different types of tea leaves such as Assam, Darjeeling, and Ceylon. This drink has become a favourite in Japan. It has a bold, rich taste and a smooth, creamy feel, all thanks to a little extra milk compared to the everyday milk tea.

Also, people in Japan seem to like Darjeeling tea a lot, not only as a part of Royal Milk Tea but also for its aroma. According to a study by some Japanese scientists, the aroma of second flush Darjeeling tea was found to significantly reduce subjective stress and depression. 

  • The United States of America (USA): 

The USA is home to a mix of cultures, and there's a rising interest in unique and healthy tea varieties, including Darjeeling tea. People are drawn to its distinct taste and the health perks it might offer. Mostly found in high-end supermarkets, Darjeeling tea is becoming a choice for many in the country looking to explore different tea flavours. It is also popular in the USA because it is a versatile tea. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, and it can be used in a variety of recipes, such as cocktails and desserts. 

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