The Indian Chamber of Commerce observed International Tea Day, emphasizing Futuristic Tea. In addition to addressing the prospects and problems of Indian tea, with a focus on sustainability, the event featured discussions on a range of themes, including the Indian Tea Brand, engaging the youth with tea, exploring new foreign markets, and establishing a new tea policy for India.

The eminent speakers included Dr Subrata Gupta, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Food Processing & Horticulture Department, Government of West Bengal, Debasish Sen, IAS, Former Additional Chief Secretary to the Govt. of West Bengal, Information Technology & Electronics Department and Former Chairman-Managing Director, WBHIDCO, Shailja Mehta, Director, Jardin Henderson Ltd & Vice President, TAI, Chaitali Das, Director, Rakshak Group & MD, Route2Jute Pvt Ltd, Vikram S Gulia, MD, Amalgamated Plantations Pvt Ltd, TATA Subsidiary & Chairman, ICC Tea Committee, Ravi Suchanti, Co-Chair, ICC Team Committee and Susmita Dasgupta, Founder, Tea with Susmita & ICC Tea Committee Member.

The purpose of International Tea Day is to raise awareness of tea’s long history, cultural relevance, and global economic importance. Promoting sustainable production methods and increasing public knowledge of the long-lasting legacy of tea are the main goals of this day. This day provides an opportunity to highlight the effects of the global tea trade on people and economies. To support the indigenous sector, addressing industry difficulties requires collaborative activities targeted at improving vitality and global outreach.

Similar to the jute business, one of the main challenges facing the industry is striking a balance between government regulation and free market principles. This combination often undermines the industry’s inherent market dynamics, but it can also occasionally help it. Historically, boosting output has been the main priority. This strategy, however, may prove problematic if it is not accompanied by a rise in demand, leaving farmers vulnerable to changes in the market. Quality should take precedence over quantity. Concerns over the safety and quality of beverages have been raised by consumers due to the widespread use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Nowadays, consumers are increasingly aware of the products they buy. To tackle sustainability, they need to think about using less chemicals. They have promoted the usage of compost and biofertilizers in West Bengal, which benefits the soil and the crops.

These business leaders offered insightful commentary on the state of the Indian tea market going forward.

Priyanka Dutta