Assam Tea Industry Stages Remarkable Turnaround with 40 Million Kg Export Surge
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday that the state's tea industry has achieved a remarkable turnaround during the current production season, with exports increasing by a substantial 40 million kilograms. This development marks a significant recovery after 25 years of challenges in the sector.
Record Export Figures and Production Growth
According to provisional data released by the Tea Board of India, the country exported 280.40 million kg of tea in 2025, valued at Rs 8,488.43 crore. This represents an impressive 18.4% increase compared to 2024 export figures.
Assam specifically recorded a tremendous hike of 40 million kg in exports, with overall production increasing by 50 million kg. Of this additional production, 10 million kg was consumed domestically, demonstrating strong domestic demand alongside the export surge.
"After 25 years, we have witnessed a turnaround and strong performance by our gardens," Chief Minister Sarma stated, highlighting the historical significance of this achievement.
Policy Support and International Trade Developments
The Assam government has announced increased support for orthodox tea production, raising the subsidy from Rs 10 per kg to Rs 15 per kg. This move is particularly significant as orthodox tea accounts for nearly half of Assam's tea exports.
Major trade developments are further boosting the industry's prospects. India has secured zero-duty access for tea exports to the United States under an interim trade deal framework, reversing previous tariffs that had reached 50%.
"Therefore there will be zero-duty levies for Indian tea exports to the US market," said Bidyananda Barkakoty, adviser to the North Eastern Tea Association (NETA). "We are grateful to the Prime Minister and Union commerce and industry minister for this agreement."
The United States represents a growing market for Indian tea, having imported 17.14 million kg in 2024, accounting for approximately 7% of total exports. With the reinstatement of zero-duty status, exports to the US are expected to rise further in 2026.
Focus on Worker Welfare and Community Development
Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the benefits of the industry's turnaround must reach tea garden workers, urging management to consider wage increases. "If incentives are given, workers will perform better," he noted, adding that discussions would be held with tea workers' organizations.
The last wage adjustment took effect in October 2023, when tea garden workers in the Brahmaputra Valley began receiving Rs 250 per day, while those in the Barak Valley were paid Rs 228 per day.
With assembly elections approaching and tea tribes constituting a significant voter base, the government has implemented several welfare measures, including a one-time grant of Rs 5,000 each to over six lakh workers.
Upcoming Land Rights Initiative
In a landmark development for tea garden communities, the state government plans to launch the distribution of land pattas to tea garden families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Assam on March 6 or 7 to potentially inaugurate this initiative.
"It is my wish that the Prime Minister hands over the first 5,000 to 6,000 pattas to the tea workers himself," Sarma stated. "After 200 years, the workers will finally be getting ownership over their living quarters."
If scheduling conflicts prevent the Prime Minister's participation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah will be invited to attend the event, which is scheduled to occur before March 10.
The combination of increased exports, favorable trade agreements, enhanced subsidies, and worker-focused initiatives positions Assam's tea industry for sustained growth and development in the coming years.
