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| More than just a drink: How did Chinese tea come to shape Moroccans’ daily lives? |
In Morocco, Chinese tea has evolved from an ordinary drink into a deeply rooted cultural and social phenomenon. “Atay” (Moroccan mint tea) is not just a beverage; it is a daily ritual that embodies generosity and social cohesion—from the early morning, when many Moroccans begin their day with a glass of mint green tea, to evening family gatherings where tea is served as a symbol of welcome and hospitality.
The success of this “invasion” stems from multiple factors:
- Adaptation to Moroccan taste: Chinese green tea leaves are blended with plenty of fresh mint and sugar, creating a unique flavor that has become part of local identity.
- Connection to occasions: No event—from weddings to banquets and even official meetings—is complete without ceremonially served tea.
- Parallel economy: A thriving trade in mint, sugar, and traditional utensils has developed around tea, reinforcing its presence in daily markets.
Even Moroccan dialect reflects this integration, with expressions like “l-laffa shay” (the tea round), showing how deeply tea is woven into the social fabric. Thus, tea is no longer merely a Chinese import but an authentic Moroccan heritage passed down through generations.
Morocco tops African imports of Chinese tea
Data from the Chinese Customs Administration (reported by Russia’s Interfax) shows:
- Morocco imported $47.9 million worth of Chinese tea in January–February 2024 alone.
- Ghana ranked second with total imports of $17.5 million.
- Senegal placed third ($11.8 million).
- Mauritania placed fourth ($9.5 million).
China’s tea exports to Africa (H1 2024)
| Item | Quantity | Value | YoY Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total exports | 108,000 tons | $362 million | +4% |
| Green tea | 99% share | – | – |
| Black tea & others | <1% | – | – |
China’s tea imports from Africa
- Reached $11 million (+8% vs. 2023).
- The data points to growing China–Africa tea trade.
Why is Morocco the largest importer of Chinese tea?
1. Deep-rooted consumption habits
- Green tea (locally known as “Atay”) is consumed daily at home and in cafés.
- It is served as a symbol of hospitality, often with mint and sugar.
2. Heavy reliance on imports
- Morocco does not produce tea locally and depends entirely on imports.
- 99% of imported tea is green, while black tea is rarely consumed.
3. Strong trade partnership with China
- Most Moroccan tea comes from Zhejiang Province, China’s top tea-exporting region.
- Morocco also imports from Hubei and other regions.
Morocco’s imports of Chinese tea in 2023
| Item | Quantity | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Total imports | 59,000 tons | $190 million |
| Green tea | 99% share | – |
| Black tea | <1% | – |
Future of tea trade between Morocco and China
1. Continued growth in demand
- With a growing population, consumption is expected to rise.
- Morocco may import over $200 million annually by 2025.
2. Strengthening industrial cooperation
- Coming years may see Chinese investments in tea packaging in Morocco.
- Some Moroccan companies are considering joint factories with China for tea processing.
3. Diversifying import sources
- Despite China’s dominance, Morocco has begun importing limited amounts of Indian and Kenyan tea.
Morocco remains the largest African market for Chinese tea, driven by deep-rooted consumption habits and the absence of local production. As demand continues to grow, the trade relationship between the two countries is likely to expand, especially in manufacturing and distribution.
Sources
FAQ: Chinese Tea in Morocco
1) Why is green tea dominant in Morocco?
Because it blends perfectly with mint and sugar, matching traditional taste preferences and the ritual of serving “Atay.”
2) Does Morocco produce tea locally?
No. Morocco does not cultivate tea and relies almost entirely on imports—primarily from China.
3) Which Chinese regions supply Morocco?
Mostly Zhejiang, with additional volumes from Hubei and other provinces.
4) How much Chinese tea did Morocco import in early 2024?
About $47.9 million worth during January–February 2024, leading African importers by a wide margin.
5) Is black tea consumed in Morocco?
Only in small quantities. Roughly 99% of imported tea is green tea.
6) What’s the outlook for 2025?
Imports could exceed $200 million annually if demand and population growth trends continue.
7) Are import sources diversifying?
Yes, Morocco has begun importing limited amounts from India and Kenya, though China remains dominant.
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