Key Update 

Large volumes of teas at the Guwahati and Siliguri auction centres failed to meet FSSAI standards this year, pushing buyers toward South Indian and African teas. Major packers are now losing interest in Assam and West Bengal teas. The Assam Tea Planters’ Association (ATPA) urged the industry to prioritise quality and full compliance with food safety norms. Chairman Samudra P. Baruva warned that credibility and market share are at risk if standards are not improved.

Small Growers Face Added Burden

ATPA highlighted that small tea growers struggle with the added costs of compliance. Oversupply has worsened the crisis, flooding the market with poor-quality teas and depressing prices. The association suggested setting a minimum green leaf price of ₹25/kg with 40% fine count, stricter quality enforcement in neighbouring states, subsidies for better equipment, and stronger export incentives.

Safeguarding Assam’s Heritage

ATPA also demanded tighter checks on imported teas, more funding for quality programs, and campaigns to educate domestic consumers about premium teas. Baruva stressed that protecting Assam tea is not just economic but also cultural, urging swift action from all stakeholders.

Source: The Assam Tribune