TEA ALLIANCE: ECONOMY

NEWS: Not in favour of genetically modified tea, says Asia Tea Alliance

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

India is the world's 2nd largest tea producer, with Assam contributing 55% of production. The Asia Tea Alliance promotes sustainable tea practices and addresses climate change impacts on tea cultivation.

 

Tea Industry and Asia Tea Alliance

Indian Tea Industry:

  • India is the 2nd largest tea producer globally and the largest black tea producer, exporting to countries like Iran, Iraq, Russia, and Saudi Arabia.
  • Employs 1.16 million workers directly, with Assam contributing 55% of India's tea production. India's tea production grew by 39% from 2008 to 2022.

Geographical Conditions for Tea Cultivation:

  • Climate: Tropical and subtropical, with a warm, moist, frost-free environment.
  • Soil: Deep, fertile, well-drained, rich in humus.
  • Temperature: 15-23°C; Rainfall: 150-200 cm annually.
  • Key producing states include Assam, West Bengal (Darjeeling), Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and others.

Asia Tea Alliance:

  • An alliance of tea associations from major Asian producers like India, China, Sri Lanka, and Japan.
  • Focuses on promoting sustainable tea practices, addressing climate change impacts, and fostering trade cooperation.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kolkata/not-in-favour-of-genetically-modified-tea-says-asia-tea-alliance/article68841609.ece