The US Tea Association names Shabnam Weber as its new president

The Tea Association of the USA, Inc has announced the appointment of Shabnam Weber as its new president, effective 2 January 2026. She succeeds Peter F Goggi, who is retiring on 31 December 2025.

Shabnam Weber brings more than 25 years of distinguished leadership experience in the global tea industry, with a proven record of advancing industry standards, strengthening governance, and elevating the profile of tea worldwide. A dynamic speaker, respected advocate, and collaborative leader, she is widely recognized for her contributions to tea education, sustainability, and inclusive growth across the tea value chain.

Weber currently serves as president of the Tea and Herbal Association of Canada, where since 2018 she has led the national association through a period of significant transformation. Her accomplishments include rebuilding organisational structure and branding, strengthening fiscal governance, expanding membership value, and forging influential partnerships with international trade bodies. Under her leadership, the THAC has emerged as a global voice on sustainability, policy, and data-driven advocacy.

At the international level, Weber represents Canada at the United Nations FAO Intergovernmental Group on Tea, where she serves as vice-chair, co-chair of the Advocacy Pillar, chair and co-chair of the Working Group on Tea & Health, and vice-chair of the Working Group on Smallholders. Her work in these roles reflects deep value chain knowledge, policy acumen, and a strong commitment to equitable and sustainable agricultural systems.

In addition to her association leadership, Weber is the co-founder of the International Alliance for Women in Tea, established in 2024 to support equity, leadership development, and collaboration across the global tea sector. She is also the creator of Canada’s Tea Sommelier® certification program and previously served as president of the Academy of Tea, an international education platform that reached more than 1,200 students in 24 countries and received the CSAE Award of Merit for program excellence.

Earlier in her career, Weber founded and led The Tea Emporium Inc, pioneering specialty tea retail in Toronto and supplying premium teas to leading restaurants, hotels, and spas. Her entrepreneurial background provides a strong understanding of the commercial realities of the tea industry, from origin to consumer.

Weber holds a post-graduate diploma in social science from the Open University (UK) and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science from the University of Toronto. She is a frequent speaker at global industry events and has been recognised by CEO Magazine as one of the Top 50 Women Over 50.

“The board is confident that Shabnam Weber’s strategic leadership, global perspective, and deep commitment to the advancement of tea will greatly benefit the Tea Association of the USA and its members,” said John Smith, Jr, chairman of the board. “Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the Association as we continue to support and represent the US tea industry.”

Weber succeeds Peter F Goggi, who is retiring after 14 years with the Tea Association and 47 years in the Tea Industry. Shabnam and will work closely with the board, members, and stakeholders to advance the association’s mission and strategic priorities. (For more information on Goggi’s career, read the profile in T&CTJ: https://www.teaandcoffee.net/feature/38264/a-life-well-lived-in-tea/)

Founded in 1899, the Tea Association of the USA, Inc. was formed to promote and protect the interests of the tea trade in the United States and is the recognised independent authority on tea.