Assam, Bengal tea industry in distress, ITA calls for immediate intervention

A grim reality is unfolding in Assam and West Bengal's tea industry as plummeting auction prices, weak demand, rising imports, and mounting export challenges threaten the sustainability of one of India's oldest sectors.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE Siliguri, 1 September

The Indian Tea Association (ITA) has urged the government for immediate intervention, stressing that without corrective measures, the future of the industry—and the livelihood of millions dependent on it—faces grave risk.

According to ITA secretary general Arijit Raha: "The tea industry in Assam and West Bengal is in distress. We are calling for urgent government intervention on four key fronts—addressing price volatility, strengthening pest management in the face of climate change, tackling import concerns, and supporting India's export potential."

Auction Price Decline Auction trends have painted a worrying picture. North India's three major centres—Kolkata, Guwahati, and Siliguri—have seen steep price falls between mid-July and mid-August. Data from the Tea Board reveals that North Indian average auction prices dropped by Rs 14.52 (5.94 per cent) between April and July 2025 compared to last year, and the decline deepened in subsequent sales. In some cases, prices fell by as much as Rs 32 to Rs 74 per kg.