The war in Iraq has sent tea export to Iraq for a six. Around 23 per cent of Indian tea exports are shipped to Iraq, which has been identified as one of the key export markets.
During January-November 2002, Iraq lifted around 40.25 million kg of tea. In comparison, CIS picked up 52 million kg Russia, traditionally considered to be the most important export market for India, accounted for 40.22 million kg.
But, now with the war, uncertainty looms over Indian tea exports. While exports to Iraq was around 40 million kg, the total basket of exports during the same period was 175.30 million kg.
N K Das, chairman Tea Board of India said that, Iraq has turned out to be an important market over the last one year as exports have increased substantially.
