India’s tea exports have nearly doubled over the past decade, rising from ₹4,509 crore in 2013–14 to ₹8,719 crore in 2025–26, marking a growth of about 93%, according to an article posted by union minister for commerce and industry Piyush Goyal on social media handle X. The surge is attributed to expanding global demand and new trade agreements that are expected to improve access to key markets such as Europe, the UK, and New Zealand.
Indian tea, he said, is now widely consumed across major international markets including the UAE, Russia, the US, China, and Germany, which together account for over two-thirds of export volumes. The government views this as both an economic achievement and a reflection of India’s cultural influence abroad.
However, the sector continues to face structural challenges, particularly concerning the welfare of tea workers and small growers. The government has acknowledged longstanding issues in regions like West Bengal, where delays and administrative hurdles previously held up the delivery of central welfare benefits worth over ₹300 crore. These disruptions significantly impacted workers dependent on the tea economy, he wrote on the occasion of the International Tea Day on 21 May.
To address these gaps, the Centre has introduced the Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana with an allocation of ₹999 crore for 2024–26, focusing on improving living conditions, healthcare, education, and infrastructure in tea-growing regions. Recent administrative changes in West Bengal are expected to accelerate the rollout of such schemes, signaling improved coordination between state and central authorities, he said.
Beyond policy and trade, the tea industry remains deeply tied to India’s heritage, with roots tracing back centuries. Varieties such as Darjeeling, Assam, and Nilgiri continue to define India’s global reputation, even as the sector adapts to modern economic and governance challenges.
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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