Assam Tea Industry Faces Crisis Over Quality Non-Compliance

A large share of teas at Guwahati and Siliguri auctions have failed FSSAI standards, pushing buyers toward South Indian and imported teas, according to FAITTA.

The Assam Tea Planters’ Association (ATPA) has urged urgent reforms, stressing that quality compliance is key to restoring market credibility. Chairman Samudra P Baruva called for a minimum price of ₹25/kg for green leaf, stricter quality checks, and government support for small growers.

ATPA also sought subsidies, transport incentives, and stricter control on imported teas. With falling prices and oversupply, the association warned that the future of Assam’s tea industry—and millions of livelihoods—depends on immediate action.