In early May 2026, Rwanda Mountain Tea (RMT) was at the Savoy Hotel in London for the annual Tea Trade Dinner one of the most respected gatherings in the global tea industry. The event has brought together tea professionals from around the world since 1911, drawing producers, buyers, and brand representatives under one roof for an evening of trade and networking
What made this year’s participation stand out: RMT’s Rutsiro tea was selected to be served during the gala dinner itself a direct recognition of its quality in front of the industry’s key decision-makers.
The Companies RMT Met
The evening brought RMT into direct conversation with some of the most established names in the international tea market. Among those present: Ahmad Tea, Twinings Tea, Taylor’s of Harrogate, Thompson Lloyd & Ewart, Kingdom Tea, LAB International, and Mizaj Tea Africa Ltd.
These are companies that source, blend, and distribute tea to consumers across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Meeting them in London away from procurement inboxes and trade fairs creates space for real commercial conversations about sourcing, quality, and long-term partnership.
Rutsiro Tea: Rwanda in the Cup
The selection of Rutsiro tea for the dinner’s service wasn’t incidental. RMT’s Rutsiro factory produces certified organic black tea compliant with both European Organic Standards (EOS) and American NOP standards grown in Rwanda’s Western Province at high altitude. The tea’s character reflects exactly what global specialty buyers are increasingly looking for: clean origin, traceable production, and consistent quality.
RMT holds certifications including ISO 22000:2018, Rainforest Alliance, ECOCERT, and HACCP, making its teas ready for premium retail and foodservice markets worldwide. Having Rutsiro tea poured at a room full of international buyers and brand managers is the kind of brand moment that no marketing budget can easily replicate. Rwandamountaintea
Why This Matters for Rwandan Tea
Tea is Rwanda’s leading agricultural export product, generating around USD 115 million in the 2023/24 season and supporting more than 100,000 people across the value chain. Growing that export base depends on the strength of Rwanda’s relationships with international buyers and RMT is Rwanda’s most visible face in those conversations.
Being present at the London Tea Trade Dinner, and having Rutsiro tea served during the evening, puts RMT and Rwandan tea squarely in the awareness of the people who decide what ends up in teabags and specialty blends across global markets.
