The Rise of Black Tea in South Asia
To meet the increasing domestic demand, the United Kingdom began seeking alternative supply sources outside of China. By the early 18th century, India had officially secured a leading position in the export of black tea to Europe, heralding the glorious history of black tea in the West for centuries to come.
After India, Sri Lanka also surpassed China and became one of the major suppliers of black tea to Europe. The quality of South Asian black teas largely defines the flavor profile of black tea today.
In 1950, Sri Lanka's Dilmah brand elevated black tea to global prominence. By 1991, the country had become the world's leading exporter of high-quality black tea in substantial volumes.
Recently, domestic production of black tea has emerged in Vietnam, including premium varieties catering to luxury hotels and restaurants. Notably, Ha Giang Black Tea stands out in the gourmet segment due to its artisanal processing from ancient tea trees.
Other industrially processed tea products are predominantly used in the bubble tea and fruit tea markets, as well as in instant tea beverages by renowned brands like Twinings, Bigelow, Dilmah, and Lipton.
Vietnam now processes around 15 different types of tea, with black tea constituting the majority of its exports (nearly 60% by volume), followed by green tea and a few other varieties.
