Tea in Iran includes predominantly black tea, often consumed loose-leaf, along with some imported varieties and packaged options, shaped by strong domestic consumption and regional cultivation. In cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz, tea is widely available through markets, tea houses, and supermarkets, where loose-leaf tea remains the preferred format. In smaller towns and rural areas, tea consumption is centered on home preparation, with simple brewing methods and consistent daily use. Iran is both a significant consumer and producer of tea, with cultivation concentrated in the northern Caspian region, and tea ranks among the highest per capita consumption levels globally. Compared with other beverages, tea occupies a dominant everyday role, supported by affordability, habit, and strong distribution networks. As a result, tea in Iran reflects a mature, consumption-driven market where domestic production and routine use reinforce its central position.
