The tea supply chain: a comparative analysis of environmental sustainability challenges in divergent economies

Tea production is one of the most important agri-food chains in the world and plays a crucial role in global agriculture and trade. As the tea industry continues to expand, it faces increasing pressure to address the challenges of environmental sustainability within its complex supply chains, which is of particular importance for two of the major producing countries: China, the world's largest tea producer, and Kenya, a major exporter of black tea. Although both countries differ in their environmental, socio-economic, and cultural contexts, they face growing challenges in transitioning to a more sustainable model. The comparison between China and Kenya highlights different strategies for environmental sustainability in the tea supply chain. China relies on technological innovation and strict policies to reduce pesticide use and improve efficiency. Kenya relies on international cooperation and local solutions to address food insecurity and climate change. In both countries, environmental sustainability often takes a backseat to the socio-economic interests and food production that are crucial to their development. This delicate balance requires more attention to combine effective environmental policies with economic development ensuring a sustainable tea supply chain in the long term. The challenge is to reconcile environmental concerns with economic growth and food security in these diverse tea-growing countries.