Exports continue to 33 countries, including European destinations for higher-quality varieties, as well as markets that favor blends less popular among Iranian consumers due to differing tastes, he said.

 

The average export price rose to $1.20 per kilogram this year from $1.01 a year earlier, reflecting firmer global prices.

 

He added that the relatively competitive pricing of Iranian tea has supported its position in international markets, according to Tehran Times.

 

Domestic consumption, however, has moderated amid broader economic pressures and price fluctuations in essential goods, Hassani said, noting that consumers have become more cautious in their spending.

 

On the import side, Iran purchased 44,900 tons of tea worth $259.9 million from eight countries this year, up 17.5 percent compared with the same period last year.

 

The average value of imported tea stood at about $6.0 per kilogram, significantly higher than export prices.

 

Hassani said Iran remains a major consumer market for global tea producers, while lower-priced domestic output provides export opportunities abroad.

 

He added that demand for locally produced tea has gradually improved following public awareness campaigns highlighting product quality, easing earlier concerns among growers and processors about insufficient domestic demand.