International Tea Day 2025: Theme, Key messages and Interesting facts by FAO United Nations

International Tea Day is an event established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and it is celebrated every year on May 21 to understand the importance of tea in our daily lives, its cultural significance, and its role in fighting poverty and hunger. 

The United Nations officially established International Tea Day in 2019, and it was first celebrated on May 21, 2020. The FAO website mentions: “In December 2019, the United Nations General Assembly, supported the call from the Intergovernmental Group on Tea and proclaimed 21 May as the International Tea Day,  calling on FAO to lead the observance. The Day aims to raise awareness of the tea sector's socio-economic relevance as well as its contribution to achieving the 2030 Agenda.”

Further, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, works with countries, farmers, and organizations all over the world to promote sustainable tea production and trade.

What is the Theme of International Tea Day 2025?

The official theme for International Tea Day 2025 is “Tea for Better Lives”. This theme focuses on how tea can be a helpful tool that improves the lives of millions of people. From farmers to factory workers, traders to consumers, tea contributes to better livelihoods, stronger communities, and healthier lifestyles.

Key Messages by FAO for International Tea Day

Each year, the FAO shares important messages and objectives for International Tea Day. Here are some key messages that have been shared by the organisation for the year 2025:

• “Tea production and processing represent a source of livelihoods for millions of families, including millions in the least developed countries.

• The tea sector is a multi-billion dollar industry that can support economies and contribute to sustainable food systems.

• Tea export earnings help to finance food import bills, supporting the economies of major tea-producing countries.

• The tea sector plays a vital role in socio-economic development, representing a major source of employment and income for millions of poor families worldwide.

• Tea production and processing empower individuals—especially women—by promoting economic inclusion and strengthening community resilience.

• Tea thrives in very specific agro-ecological conditions and environments, which are often impacted by climate change.

• Smallholder tea producers need our support to strengthen their business model and environment and overcome the challenges they face.

• In order to ensure benefits for both people and the environment, the tea value chain must be efficient and sustainable at all stages, from field to cup.”

5 Interesting Facts About Tea 

Here are some amazing and lesser-known facts about tea shared by FAO and supported by global data:

• Tea is the second most consumed drink after water. It is estimated that billions of cups of tea are consumed every single day around the world.
• Tea is one of the oldest beverages in the world. According to FAO, the first tea is supposed to have been consumed in China over 5000 years ago. 
• Drinking tea has many health benefits. The FAO mentions: “Drinking tea can bring many health benefits, from anti-inflammatory to antioxidant and weight loss effects.”
• Tea production is a source of income for millions of families that includes many least developed countries. 
• Tea cups were initially made without handles which were influenced by Chinese tea bowls. 

In conclusion, International Tea Day 2025 is more than just a celebration of a beloved beverage. It is a global reminder of how tea connects us through culture, commerce, and community. Guided by the FAO and the United Nations, this day calls attention to the challenges faced by tea farmers, especially women and smallholders, and encourages everyone to support sustainability, equality, and climate resilience in the tea industry.

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