Why Every Tea Exporter Needs a Tea Board License in 2025

19 hours ago

India is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of tea, known for its aromatic Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri, and Kangra varieties. As the global demand for Indian tea continues to rise, exporting tea has become a lucrative opportunity for businesses. However, before entering the international market, obtaining a tea board license is not just advisable—it is mandatory under Indian law. In 2025, with stricter trade regulations and increased emphasis on quality, the importance of securing this license has never been greater.

What is a Tea Board License?

The tea board license is issued by the Tea Board of India, a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This license ensures that only authentic, high-quality tea is exported from India. It also helps maintain the reputation of Indian tea in the global market by regulating trade practices and ensuring compliance with export standards.

Without a valid tea board license, no individual or business is legally allowed to export tea from India. The license also serves as proof of authenticity and quality for buyers in international markets.

Why is the Tea Board License Essential for Exporters in 2025?

Mandatory Legal Compliance
Exporting tea without a tea board license is a direct violation of Indian trade laws. In 2025, the government has reinforced its crackdown on unlicensed exports to prevent adulteration and maintain quality standards. Obtaining the license ensures that your business is legally compliant and avoids penalties.
Quality Certification
Buyers around the world trust Indian tea because of its rich flavor and strict quality control. The tea board license acts as an official quality certification, ensuring that only premium-grade tea reaches foreign markets. This certification is especially important in competitive regions like the European Union, where product quality and traceability are critical.
Market Credibility and Trust
International buyers often prefer working with exporters who hold a tea board license because it signals reliability, adherence to ethical sourcing, and compliance with global trade norms. This credibility can help you secure long-term contracts and premium pricing.
Access to Export Benefits
Licensed tea exporters can enjoy government incentives such as duty drawback, GST refunds, and other export-related subsidies. In 2025, several trade promotion schemes are linked directly to having a valid tea board license.
Protection Against Counterfeit Trade
The tea board license helps safeguard your brand by preventing counterfeit or substandard tea from being sold under the name of authentic Indian varieties. The Tea Board maintains strict checks and traceability systems to protect the reputation of exporters.

Eligibility and Types of Tea Board Licenses

To apply for a tea board license, you must:

Be an Indian citizen or a registered company in India.
Have a valid Import Export Code (IEC).
Comply with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations.
Demonstrate sourcing from registered tea gardens or authorized suppliers.

The Tea Board issues different licenses based on the type of trade:

Exporter’s License – For businesses exporting tea internationally.
Tea Waste License – For handling and selling tea waste.
Auction Organizer’s License – For entities conducting tea auctions.
Buyer’s License – For purchasing tea from auctions or registered suppliers.

For exporters, the tea board license specifically for international trade is the most crucial.

How to Apply for a Tea Board License in 2025

The process has been simplified with digital applications:

Register on the Tea Board’s Official Portal
Visit the official Tea Board of India website and create an account.
Fill Out the Application Form
Provide details such as business registration number, IEC code, FSSAI license number, and details of tea sources.
Upload Required Documents
- Business registration certificate
- Import Export Code (IEC)
- FSSAI license
- PAN card and Aadhaar card (for individuals)
- Proof of tea garden registration or supplier agreement
Pay the License Fee
The application fee varies depending on the type of license.
Inspection and Approval
The Tea Board may inspect your premises or verify your suppliers before granting approval.

Once approved, your tea board license will be valid for a specific period and must be renewed before expiry.

Consequences of Not Having a Tea Board License

In 2025, the penalties for exporting without a tea board license are strict and can include:

Heavy fines
Blacklisting from future exports
Confiscation of goods
Legal action under trade laws

Apart from legal repercussions, operating without a license can severely damage your business reputation in both domestic and international markets.

Final Thoughts

A tea board license is not just a regulatory formality—it’s your ticket to building a sustainable, profitable tea export business. With increasing global demand for Indian tea, holding a valid license ensures your products are trusted, high-quality, and legally compliant.

In 2025, as trade rules tighten and quality expectations rise, obtaining a tea board license is a step you cannot afford to skip. Whether you are a seasoned exporter or a newcomer to the industry, securing this license is the foundation of a credible and successful tea export operation.