In 2025, the Mombasa Tea Auction experienced a dip in sales, with 437.3 million kilograms of tea sold, down from 462.1 million kilograms in 2024. Despite lower volumes, market efficiency improved significantly, with a sharp decline in the percentage of unsold tea.

• Total tea offered by producers from six African countries fell to 583.96 million kilograms in 2025, compared to 893.8 million kilograms in the previous year.
• George Omuga, Managing Director of the East African Tea Trade Association, noted the decrease in offered volumes.
• The unsold tea rate dramatically improved, dropping from 48 percent in 2024 to 25 percent in 2025, indicating enhanced market efficiency.
• Leading buyers included Global Tea with 49 million kilograms, followed by LAB International and Chai Trading each purchasing 33.5 million kilograms.
• Due to projected production declines and increasing global demand, tea prices are expected to remain firm in 2026.