Tea exports fall 5% as Middle East disruption hits key markets

Sri Lanka’s tea exports fell sharply in the first seven months of 2026, with Middle East shipping disruptions compounding weaker shipments to several key markets and contributing to a $ 67 million decline in export earnings. Tea exports during January-July dropped 4.9% to 143.51 million kg, from 150.85 million kilograms (Mn/Kg) in the corresponding period last year, according to data from Forbe ..