Tea imports in 2008 are estimated to be around 257 million lbs. "This is virtually just the tip of the iceberg. Packers are beginning to use a health message to sell, € he said. For 2008, up from 240 million lbs.

Specialty tea is the industry € fastest-growing segment, with most of the large coffee houses now including a line of such teas, a report. US Tea Imports Up As People Seek Health Benefits The amount of tea imported into the United States is projected to have risen 7 percent last year, as people increasingly turn to green tea for its perceived health benefits, the Tea Association of the U.S.A. "Tea enjoys positive imagery regarding its contributions to health versus other beverages," said the association € president, Joe Simrany, at a convention in Florida.

Imports of traditional tea, including black, white, green and oolong tea, have been increasing in volume at an annualized rate of 3 to 5 percent over the past ten years, he said, adding that he expects the trend to continue.