How To Export Tea From India: A Complete Guide
India is the second-largest tea producer in the world, known for its premium quality varieties like Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri. The tea export business is a great way to tap into a global market that appreciates the taste and heritage of Indian tea. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to export tea from India, the documents required, licenses, top importing countries, and practical tips to get started.
Introduction to Tea Export from India
Indian tea is exported to over 50 countries with major markets including Russia, the UK, Iran, UAE, and the USA. Further, the Tea Board of India provides exporters with certifications and support programs, as well as ensuring quality standards in the tea export industry. Whether you are a grower, manufacturer, or trader, the export process requires proper registration and compliance.
Step-by-Step Tea Export Process
Follow these essential steps to export tea from India:
1. Register Your Export Business
Set up a legal business entity (sole proprietorship, LLP, or private limited company) and open a current account.
2. Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)
Apply for the 10-digit IEC from the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) via dgft.gov.in. This is mandatory for export.
3. Get FSSAI License
As tea is a consumable product, it is regulated by the FSSAI. Apply for your food license via foscos.fssai.gov.in.
4. Register with Tea Board of India
Apply for an Exporter License via the Tea Board of India at teaboard.gov.in. This license ensures compliance with tea export quality standards.
5. Find International Buyers
Use B2B platforms (Alibaba, TradeIndia), participate in global tea fairs, and list on e-commerce platforms. Reach out through LinkedIn and other networks.
6. Finalize Export Terms
Negotiate incoterms, pricing, shipping mode (air/sea), packaging, and payment method (LC, advance, etc.).
7. Package and Label as per Standards
Use export-compliant, moisture-proof packaging. Label with origin, grade, net weight, batch number, and expiry date.
8. Customs Clearance and Shipping
Appoint a CHA (Customs House Agent) to handle the shipping documentation. Choose appropriate freight mode and insurance.
Documents Required to Export Tea from India
Here is a checklist of key documents required for exporting tea:
| Document Name | Issuing Authority | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Import Export Code (IEC) | DGFT | 🔵 Mandatory |
| FSSAI License | FSSAI | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Tea Board Registration | Tea Board of India | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Certificate of Origin | Chamber of Commerce | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | Plant Quarantine Department | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Bill of Lading / Airway Bill | Shipping Line / Airline | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Commercial Invoice | Exporter | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Packing List | Exporter | 🔵 Mandatory |
| Buyer’s Purchase Order / LC | Buyer | 🔵 Mandatory |
Furthermore, having these documents available helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth export process.
How to Get a Tea Board Certificate Online?
You can apply for a Tea Board Exporter Certificate via their official portal:
- Visit the Tea Board of India website.
- Create an exporter login and fill out the online application.
- Upload necessary documents (GST, FSSAI, IEC, PAN).
- Pay the registration fee.
- The certificate is issued after verification, usually within 5–7 working days.
Tea Board of India: Role in Tea Export
The Tea Board of India plays a crucial role in facilitating tea exports. Their responsibilities include:
- Certifying exporters with RCMC
- Providing export subsidies and financial aid
- Regulating quality control and traceability
- Promoting Indian tea in international markets through fairs and branding
Further, as a recognized body under the Ministry of Commerce, the Tea Board helps standardize exports and maintain India’s reputation.
Top Importing Countries of Indian Tea
India exports tea to multiple countries, with these being the top destinations:
| Country | Market Share | Key Preferences |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | High (22%) | Orthodox & Assam teas |
| UAE | Rising (18%) | Premium loose teas |
| UK | Steady (15%) | Traditional black teas |
| USA | Growing (12%) | Green & specialty teas |
| Iran | Strong (10%) | Darjeeling teas |
| Saudi Arabia | Moderate (8%) | CTC blends |
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Additionally, tailor your marketing and documentation to the import requirements of these countries to improve success.
How to Apply for Tea Board License Online?
Follow these steps to apply for a Tea Board License:
- Go to the Tea Board of India’s Exporter Portal
- Register your exporter profile
- Provide details of your business, IEC, factory/manufacturing unit, and FSSAI license
- Upload digital documents
- Submit and track your application online
The license must be renewed periodically, and maintaining accurate export records is essential.
Tips for New Tea Exporters
- Start with smaller shipments and sample consignments
- Ensure quality and packaging standards to avoid rejections
- Build buyer trust with clear contracts and consistent communication
- Stay updated with Tea Board notifications and government schemes
- Use export insurance for risk mitigation
Also, you can diversify into value-added forms like tea bags, flavored teas, and organic blends for better profit margins.
Conclusion
Tea export from India is a thriving business opportunity with global demand for Indian flavors and quality. With the right licenses, documentation, buyer strategy, and product knowledge, anyone can tap into the international tea trade. In addition, be consistent in your quality, focus on branding, and stay compliant in order to grow your tea export business.
If you’re also planning to export spices from India, many of the steps and documentation overlap, making it easier to expand your portfolio.
Partner with Hind Gate for Tea Export
Looking to streamline your tea export journey with expert guidance and end-to-end support? Hind Gate, a Dubai-based export company, helps businesses set up, license, and scale their export operations globally. Furthermore, we can help you source the finest Indian teas, navigate compliance, and streamline your export process.
 Explore our Tea Export Solutions and start your journey today.
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