Strengthening India–Germany Trade Ties through Tea
As part of the ongoing outreach initiatives of the Consulate General of India, Frankfurt, Consul General Ms. Shuchita Kishore visited Tee Gschwendner, a renowned German tea company headquartered in Meckenheim. The visit was aimed at exploring avenues to further enhance India–Germany cooperation in the tea sector, which has been a cornerstone of the long-standing trade relationship between the two countries.
During the interaction, CG Kishore met Mr. Jonathan Gschwendner, General Manager and son of the company’s founder Mr. Albert Gschwendner, and Mr. Thomas Holz, the company’s Chief Tea Taster. The discussions focused on Tee Gschwendner’s long-standing association with Indian tea producers and the growing consumer preference in Germany for high-quality Indian teas.
Founded in 1976 by 22-year-old Albert Gschwendner with its first tea shop in Trier, the company has since evolved into Germany’s largest tea retailer, with a strong network of specialty tea stores and an international presence. Tee Gschwendner has built its reputation on sourcing premium teas from around the world, with India being its top supplier.
It was informed that India currently ranks as the No. 1 supplier of tea to Germany, exporting nearly 2000 tons annually, consisting mainly of Assam and Darjeeling black teas—renowned globally for their unique flavor profiles and aroma. The company also shared its growing interest in green teas from India, reflecting changing global trends toward wellness and sustainability.
A.s part of the visit, CG Kishore was given a guided tour of Tee Gschwendner’s state-of-the-art in-house laboratory, where rigorous quality control and tasting processes ensure that only the finest teas reach consumers. The company’s emphasis on maintaining authenticity, freshness, and ethical sourcing aligns closely with India’s commitment to sustainable tea cultivation.
The visit underscored the immense potential for enhanced collaboration between Indian tea producers and German retailers, particularly in promoting premium and organic tea varieties. Such partnerships not only strengthen bilateral trade but also bring the rich heritage and diversity of Indian teas to discerning tea drinkers across Europe.
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