Introduction
India is one of the largest tea producers in the world. Famous regions like Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri supply premium tea varieties that are loved globally. Countries such as the USA, UK, Russia, UAE, and Europe import large volumes of Indian tea.
Exporting tea is a profitable business, but it requires understanding of government regulations, licensing, and proper documentation. With the right approach, exporters can benefit from India’s strong tea industry and meet the growing international demand.
Government Regulations and Authorities
Tea export from India is regulated by multiple authorities.
- DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade): Issues the Importer Exporter Code (IEC), mandatory for export.
- Tea Board of India: Under the Ministry of Commerce, it manages tea quality, promotion, and certification. Exporters must register with the Tea Board.
- FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India): Ensures compliance with food safety laws.
- APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority): Provides support in international promotion and trade fairs.
- Customs and Plant Quarantine Department: Handle clearance and certificates when required by importing countries.
The Tea Act, 1953 also plays a role in regulating tea cultivation, quality, and exports.
Step-by-Step Tea Export Process
1. Business Setup
The exporter must register a business entity and open a current account in a bank.
2. Obtain IEC Code
Apply online with DGFT to get the Importer Exporter Code. This is compulsory for all exporters.
3. Register with Tea Board of India
All tea exporters must register with the Tea Board. The Tea Board issues an RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate). This is mandatory for exporting bulk tea, packet tea, or instant tea.
4. FSSAI License
As tea is a food product, an FSSAI license is required. This ensures compliance with hygiene and safety standards.
5. Market Research
Study demand in key markets such as the UK, Russia, USA, Iran, and UAE. Each market has specific taste preferences and packaging norms.
6. Find Buyers
Exporters can connect with buyers through tea auctions, trade fairs, B2B websites, or export agents. Buyer agreements must clearly define quality, price, and delivery terms.
7. Processing and Packaging
Processing depends on the type of tea—black, green, white, or instant. International buyers prefer packaging that preserves freshness. Vacuum-sealed pouches, paper cartons, and tins are commonly used.
8. Quality Certification
The Tea Board conducts compulsory quality checks. Exporters must get the Certificate of Origin and quality certification for each shipment. Some importing countries also demand pesticide residue analysis and ISO standards compliance.
9. Documentation and Customs Clearance
The exporter must submit documents online through the ICEGATE portal. The required documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Tea Board Certificate of Registration
- FSSAI License copy
- Phytosanitary Certificate (if required)
- Quality Test Reports
10. Shipping
For bulk tea, sea freight is commonly used. For premium and smaller consignments, air freight may be chosen.
Essential Documents for Tea Export
- IEC from DGFT
- Tea Board Registration (RCMC)
- FSSAI License
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Phytosanitary Certificate (if required)
- Quality Test Reports
Government Support for Tea Exporters
The government provides strong backing for tea exports through the Tea Board and APEDA.
- Tea Board Schemes: Financial support for packaging, branding, and participation in international trade fairs.
- APEDA Schemes: Assistance for quality testing, certification, and infrastructure support.
- Export Incentives: Refunds through GST input tax credit and duty drawback schemes.
- Promotion Support: Market development assistance for exporters to connect with international buyers.
Benefits of Exporting Tea from India
Strong Global Reputation: Indian teas like Darjeeling and Assam are world-famous.
- High Demand: Tea is consumed daily in almost every country.
- Diverse Varieties: Black, green, herbal, and specialty teas give exporters multiple product options.
- Government Assistance: Tea Board and APEDA provide financial and technical support.
- Value Addition: Branded and packaged teas get higher margins than bulk exports.
Challenges in Tea Export
Exporters must also manage some challenges.
- Strict quality standards in Europe and the USA.
- Rising competition from Kenya, Sri Lanka, and China.
- Price fluctuations in the domestic market.
- High logistics cost for premium packaging.
These challenges can be managed with better storage, improved branding, and focus on niche premium markets.
Conclusion
Exporting tea from India is a profitable and growing business opportunity. With strong demand worldwide, exporters can succeed by following government rules and maintaining quality.
The process requires an IEC code, Tea Board registration, FSSAI license, and proper documentation. Government bodies like the Tea Board and APEDA provide financial assistance and global promotion support.
By ensuring quality packaging, complying with regulations, and building buyer relationships, Indian exporters can create a strong presence in the international tea market. With India’s heritage and expertise in tea, the future of tea exports remains bright.
