Tehran - Iran is ramping up its tea exports, with shipments reaching neighboring countries and European markets, Habib Jahansaz, the head of Iran's Tea Organization, said.

"The door to tea exports has been opened," Jahansaz said during a visit to tea factories in Fuman, Rasht, where 12 containers of tea were being exported to Central Asia.

"Tea factories in Gilan province, with their export capacity, are actively pursuing this opportunity."

According to Jahansaz, Iran exports approximately 12,000 tons of tea annually to over 23 countries, including neighboring nations and European markets. In the previous year, this figure reached an impressive 15,000 tons.

"Tea exports to our target markets in neighboring countries and Europe generate around $20 million annually," he added, emphasizing the organization's efforts to maintain this steady export and revenue stream.

Tea factory owners have confirmed that there is a strong demand for Iranian tea in international markets. However, they highlighted the challenges posed  by inadequate export infrastructure, calling on authorities to address these issues.