Introduction – Netherlands’s Tea Market: A Quantitative Overview
The Netherlands may not grow tea, but it certainly knows how to move it. Acting as a key hub in the global tea trade, the Dutch have carved out a significant role in both importing and exporting tea products. In 2023 alone, the Netherlands exported over $87.88 million worth of tea, which represented 1.19% of global tea exports. On the flip side, it imported approximately $113.54 million worth of tea, making up 2.12% of global imports. This dual role cements the Netherlands as a strategic player in global tea logistics and distribution.
Export-wise, the Dutch tea trade is largely concentrated in Europe, with Italy, Belgium, Germany, Spain, and Poland as top destinations. From green teas to bulk black teas, the Netherlands is adept at redistributing imported tea to eager markets across the continent.
For businesses navigating supplier selection, relying on historical data, export volumes, and verified supplier performance is not just smart—it’s essential. Platforms like Freshdi offer valuable tools for supplier verification, RFQ tracking, and market trend analysis to help businesses make informed decisions in this dynamic market.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Let’s set the record straight: The Netherlands doesn’t grow tea. But it imports, processes, blends, packages, and then exports it in significant volumes. In 2022, the country exported 13.6 million kilograms of tea valued at just under $100 million, a slight dip from 2021 figures. A similar story unfolded in 2023, with a moderate decrease in both volume and value.
Despite the minor downturn, the Dutch tea market remains strong in terms of demand. Consumers are leaning heavily into herbal infusions, fruit blends, and organic loose-leaf teas. The Ready-to-Drink (RTD) segment is also on the rise, boosted by health trends and convenience.
Freshdi’s RFQ (Request for Quotation) data reflects this shift, with growing inquiries into green tea blends, wellness teas, and flavored black teas. These trends are shaping not only domestic consumption but also the export portfolio of Dutch suppliers.
Top 3 Verified Tea Suppliers in Netherlands – Top Tier Based on Export Data
Now, let’s get to the heart of this article—the elite players in the Dutch tea supply game. Based on export performance, product quality, certifications, and positive buyer feedback on Freshdi, here are the Top 3 Tea Suppliers in the Netherlands as of May 2025:
1. LIA MOOS
- Specialty: Premium loose-leaf teas, organic herbal blends, and customized tea options for B2B clients.
- Certifications: Organic, Fair Trade, ISO 22000.
- Highlights: Known for innovation in health-centric teas and sustainable packaging.
- Export Focus: Strong presence in Germany, France, and Scandinavia.
2. DE OLDE KRUYK UTRECHT
- Specialty: Traditional Dutch tea blends, gift sets, and artisanal packaging.
- Certifications: HACCP, BRC.
- Highlights: A heritage brand with a modern twist—great for retailers looking for storytelling.
- Export Focus: Popular in tourist-heavy markets and specialty retail chains across Europe.
3. Lipton Teas and Infusions (Formerly Ekaterra)
- Specialty: Mass-market black teas, RTD teas, and global brand lines like Lipton, PG Tips, and Tazo.
- Certifications: Rainforest Alliance, ISO 14001.
- Highlights: Headquartered in Amsterdam, it’s the world’s largest tea company.
- Export Focus: Global footprint with strategic distribution across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Supplier rankings are subject to change based on real-time export data, buyer reviews, and activity on platforms like Freshdi. Monthly insights such as “Top Exporter of the Month” help businesses stay updated with the latest market leaders.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Price Insights & Export Dynamics
Tea Export Trends
Despite some recent bumps, the long-term trajectory of Dutch tea exports shows resilience. While 2024 saw a dip in export volume, 2023 recorded an 18.2% jump in export value, hitting $87 million. Germany, Belgium, and Poland continue to dominate as primary trade partners.
Demand Data
Consumer demand within the Netherlands is evolving. The market is projected to reach $866.61 million in 2025, with $331.23 million from at-home consumption and $535.37 million from out-of-home (cafés, hotels, etc.). Herbal teas, organic blends, and wellness-focused products are leading the way.
Forecasts and Growth
According to industry analysts, the Dutch tea market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.18% until 2025. On a global scale, the tea market will rise from $59.23 billion in 2025 to $75.5 billion by 2029, thanks to premiumization, functional ingredients (think turmeric and ginger), and sustainability trends.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
While local data on price seasonality is limited, global tea prices often fluctuate based on harvest cycles in producing countries like India and Kenya. Dutch buyers and suppliers must stay alert during these periods to secure the best deals. Freshdi’s analytics dashboard helps track price volatility, enabling smarter procurement strategies.
Latest Market Developments
In May 2025, Holland America Line launched a new Dutch Tea Time Blend, created in partnership with Art of Tea. This move reflects a broader push to rejuvenate Dutch tea culture. Meanwhile, the Dutch Tea Bureau Foundation is running campaigns to educate consumers on how to brew the perfect cup—an effort aimed at reviving declining consumption trends.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Optimized Supply Chains
The Netherlands may not grow tea bushes, but it sure knows how to grow a tea business. With its strategic location, world-class logistics, and strong export infrastructure, it remains a powerhouse in the European tea trade.
For businesses looking to source tea in or from the Netherlands, choosing the right supplier is crucial. And the best way to do that? Rely on verified export data, performance metrics, and buyer reviews—available through platforms like Freshdi.
Freshdi empowers buyers by offering:
- Verified supplier profiles
- Export history and RFQ trends
- Real-time market insights
- Dynamic rankings and buyer reviews
The tea market is changing fast, with consumer tastes evolving and new blends hitting the shelves. Stay ahead by using data, not guesswork.
Key Takeaways
- The Netherlands exported $87.88M worth of tea in 2023.
- Domestic tea consumption is projected to hit $866.61M in 2025.
- Herbal, green, and RTD teas are in high demand.
- Verified top suppliers include LIA MOOS, DE OLDE KRUYK, and Lipton Teas and Infusions.
- Freshdi provides real-time supplier intelligence and market data to optimize sourcing.
Checklist for Tea Buyers – Netherlands Edition
✅ Check supplier export volumes and certifications
✅ Prioritize herbal, green, and wellness teas to meet demand
✅ Use Freshdi to find verified suppliers and RFQ trends
✅ Track seasonal price fluctuations for better timing
✅ Monitor dynamic rankings to stay updated on top-performing suppliers
Future Outlook
The Dutch tea trade is set to grow in value, even if volumes fluctuate. Innovations in product offerings, health-driven consumption, and sustainability are shaping the future. Platforms like Freshdi will continue to play a pivotal role by connecting buyers with reliable suppliers and up-to-date market intelligence.
FAQs
1. Why is the Netherlands important in the global tea trade if it doesn’t grow tea?
Because of its strategic location, advanced logistics, and strong trade ties, the Netherlands acts as a major redistribution hub for tea across Europe.
2. What types of tea are trending in the Dutch market?
Herbal infusions, green tea, and functional blends (like detox or energy teas) are in high demand.
3. How can I verify the authenticity of a Dutch tea supplier?
Use platforms like Freshdi to view verified supplier profiles, export history, and buyer reviews.
4. Are there seasonal price changes in Dutch tea exports?
While no specific local data is available, global harvest cycles affect tea prices. Staying informed via Freshdi or commodity reports helps.
5. What’s the best way to find top tea suppliers in the Netherlands?
Check monthly rankings and supplier performance dashboards on Freshdi to identify high-performing, trusted exporters.
References
- Trade Economy – Netherlands Tea Export Data
- World Bank WITS – Tea Trade Statistics
- Statista – Netherlands Tea Market Outlook
- StrategyH – Tea Market Forecast
- Freshdi – Verified B2B Tea Suppliers
- Wikipedia – Lipton Teas and Infusions
- Cruise Industry News – Holland America Tea Launch
- IndexBox Netherlands Tea Market Report
