White tea is another rising star in China's cultural exports. Historically part of the Maritime Silk Road trade, it has long appeared in Southeast Asian and European markets.

"Queen Victoria enjoyed baihao yinzhen (silver needle) at afternoon tea. In Malaysia, shoumei is still a fixture on morning tea menus. Fortnum & Mason in the UK continues to sell silver needle tea," says Zhang Yuxin, assistant to the chairman of Fujian Pinpin Tea Co.

"According to the China Tea Marketing Association, white tea has been the fastest-growing category among the six major tea types for the past decade," Zhang says. "I believe that now and in the near future, white tea will become one of China's cultural symbols on the world stage."

From ancient trade caravans to modern-day Michelin kitchens, from Istanbul teahouses to Australian outback firesides, tea has become more than a drink. It is a shared language of tradition, trust, and cultural exchange.

Sigley says: "Whether you come from China, Australia, or anywhere else in the world, the moment you hold a warm cup of tea, we share a small yet profound 'Earth moment'."

Contact the writer at liyingxue@chinadaily.com.cn