Siliguri, February 12, 2026 – The Tea Board of India has issued a directive making laboratory testing mandatory for every imported tea consignment entering the country, effective May 1, 2026, in a move to curb the influx of low-quality and cheaper teas that have been flooding the domestic market.
The decision comes in response to a sharp rise in tea imports, particularly from Nepal, which surged by over 50% in recent years, reaching record levels and putting pressure on domestic prices. Imports from other countries like Vietnam and Kenya have also contributed to the influx of teas that often fall short of India’s quality benchmarks.
Under the new rule, all imported tea—whether bulk or value-added—must undergo testing at Tea Board-approved laboratories to ensure compliance with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) parameters, including pesticide residue limits, heavy metals, and overall quality standards. Consignments failing the tests will be rejected or re-exported.
Industry sources estimate that cheap imported teas, often priced 20-30% lower than Indian varieties, have depressed auction prices in centres like Kolkata and Guwahati, affecting small growers in Assam, West Bengal, and South India. The total value of tea imports crossed ₹1,200 crore in the last fiscal year, with Nepal alone accounting for a significant share.
Tea Board officials stated that the measure aims to protect consumer health and safeguard the reputation of Indian tea, which is renowned globally for its quality. “This is a step towards ensuring only safe and high-quality tea reaches Indian consumers while supporting domestic producers,” a senior official said.
The directive has been welcomed by major industry bodies such as the Indian Tea Association and Confederation of Indian Small Tea Growers Associations, who have long demanded stricter checks on imports. However, some traders expressed concerns over potential delays in clearance and increased costs.
With India being both the world’s second-largest tea producer and a major consumer, the new testing regime is expected to bring greater transparency and fairness to the market. The Tea Board has advised importers to prepare accordingly and comply with the updated guidelines well in advance of the May 1 deadline.
