Black Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg
Black tea packed in immediate packings not exceeding 3 kg is a dried, fermented tea product that is consumed as a beverage. It is typically stored at ambient temperature and has a low perishability when kept in dry conditions.
Prices, specifications and international trade for black tea, packed under 3 kg under HS 090230.
Black Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Black tea, packed under 3 kg is quoted in USD/t at LKA. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
Explore black tea, packed under 3 kg pricesBlack Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg Exports and Imports
Sri Lanka led reported black tea, packed under 3 kg exports in 2025, at $726M.
Compare black tea, packed under 3 kg exporting countriesBlack Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg Specifications and Quality
Black tea, packed under 3 kg grading factors include Leaf size and uniformity, Moisture content, and Fermentation level.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for black tea, packed under 3 kg considers Leaf size and uniformity, Moisture content, and Fermentation level.
- Leaf size and uniformity
Leaves are assessed for consistent size and shape to ensure even fermentation and flavor development.
- Moisture content
Moisture is measured to verify that it falls within the range required for safe transport and storage, typically between 3% and 5%.
- Fermentation level
The degree of oxidation is evaluated to confirm that the tea meets the definition of black (fully fermented) tea.
Typical Specification Ranges
Black tea, packed under 3 kg specifications record moisture content, maximum pack weight. These are typical ranges, not guarantees for an individual lot.
| Moisture content | 3.00–5.00 % |
|---|---|
| Maximum pack weight | up to 3.00 kg |
Common Defects
Recorded defects for black tea, packed under 3 kg include Leaf breakage, Mold growth, and Foreign material contamination.
- Leaf breakage
Physical damage to leaves that can affect infusion quality and appearance.
- Mold growth
Visible fungal development caused by excess moisture during transport or storage.
- Foreign material contamination
Presence of non‑tea particles such as dust, stones, or metal fragments.
Certifications
Certifications documented for black tea, packed under 3 kg include ISO 22000 and HACCP. Their applicability depends on the individual product and shipment.
- ISO 22000
Food safety management system certification applicable to tea handling and transport.
- HACCP
Hazard analysis and critical control points system used to control safety hazards during processing and transport.
Black Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg Facts and HS Code
Black tea, packed under 3 kg belongs to tea within softs and tropicals. Its customs classification covers HS 090230.
Black Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg HS Code
| Product type | Finished |
|---|---|
| Form | Dried |
| Position in the chain | Primary |
| Category | Tea — Softs and tropicals |
| HS codes | 090230 |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | LKA |
Production & Handling
Processing steps for black tea, packed under 3 kg include Leaf plucking, Withering, Rolling.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | Low |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Ambient |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical black tea, packed under 3 kg packaging includes Paper bags and Cardboard cartons.
- Paper bags
Multi‑layer paper bags that protect the tea from light and moisture while allowing limited breathability.
- Cardboard cartons
Outer cartons that hold one or more paper bags and provide structural support for handling.
Uses & Risks
Black tea, packed under 3 kg is used in Beverage, Flavoring, and Extracts.
End Uses
- Beverage
Used to brew black tea infusions for consumption as a hot or cold drink
- Flavoring
Used as a flavor ingredient in food products, confectionery and bakery items
- Extracts
Processed into tea extracts for use in beverages, nutraceuticals and cosmetics
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Beverage manufacturers, Food processors, Retail trade |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Weather‑related supply disruptions ClimateMedium Unseasonal rains or droughts in tea‑growing regions can reduce yields and affect the availability of black tea for packing. | Diversify sourcing across multiple regions and maintain buffer inventories to absorb short‑term supply gaps. |
Microbial contamination Food safetyMedium Improper handling or storage can allow growth of bacteria such as Salmonella or molds, compromising product safety. | Maintain strict hygiene standards, monitor temperature and humidity, and implement regular microbial testing. |
Transportation delays LogisticsLow Delays in shipping or inland transport can extend storage time, increasing risk of moisture ingress and quality degradation. | Select reliable carriers, track shipments in real time, and ensure containers are sealed and climate‑controlled. |
Insect infestation PestLow Storage facilities may be vulnerable to insects like beetles that can damage tea leaves and affect quality. | Use sealed packaging, apply integrated pest management, and conduct routine inspections of storage areas. |
Black Tea, Packed Under 3 Kg Questions
- What are the packaging requirements for black tea packed in containers of up to 3 kg?
- The tea must be packed in immediate packings that do not exceed 3 kg per unit. The packaging should protect the product from contamination and moisture during transport. The transport unit must be clean and suitable for food, and handling should follow hygienic practice guidelines.
- How is black tea classified for customs and trade purposes?
- Black tea that is fermented or partly fermented and packed in containers of 3 kg or less is classified under HS code 090230. This code applies to tea in immediate packings not exceeding the specified weight limit.