How to Export Tea from India: 2025 Complete Guide

Introduction: India’s Tea Export Powerhouse

India is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of tea, supplying to over 100 countries. From the rolling hills of Darjeeling to the lush plains of Assam and Nilgiri, Indian tea is admired for its richness, aroma, and authenticity. The world’s growing demand for premium teas has made the tea export business from India one of the most profitable sectors in global trade.

Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business, understanding how to export tea from India is essential to enter this thriving market.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of tea export, required licenses, documentation, packaging guidelines, and how leading exporters like Exaplus International have mastered the art of delivering India’s finest tea to the world.

1. Overview of India’s Tea Industry

Tea is not just a drink — it’s part of India’s heritage. With an annual production of over 1.3 billion kilograms, India ranks among the top three tea producers globally. Major producing states include:

• Assam
• West Bengal (Darjeeling & Dooars)
• Tamil Nadu (Nilgiri)
• Kerala
• Himachal Pradesh

Indian tea is categorized into several varieties — CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl), Orthodox, Green, White, and Herbal Teas — each having its unique taste and export potential.

In 2024, India exported tea worth over ₹6,500 crore, and this number is expected to rise in 2025 due to growing demand in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

2. Why Start a Tea Export Business from India?

Starting a tea export business offers tremendous opportunities because of:

• High international demand for authentic Indian teas.
• Consistent supply chain from well-established plantations.
• Favorable government policies supporting agricultural exports.
• Low competition in specialty and organic segments.
• Strong brand recognition for “Indian Tea” globally.

With proper planning, the right certifications, and reliable suppliers like Exaplus International, you can establish a profitable export business in this evergreen sector.

3. Legal Requirements and Certifications for Tea Export

Before exporting tea, you must comply with certain legal, licensing, and quality standards. Here’s what you need to start:

1. Register Your Business

Start by registering your company as a Private Limited, LLP, or Proprietorship under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

2. Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)

The IEC license issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is mandatory for all exporters.

3. Get Tea Board Registration

The Tea Board of India provides the Exporter’s License under the Tea (Distribution & Export) Control Order.
Without this registration, no tea can be exported legally.

4. FSSAI License

Since tea is a consumable product, a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license ensures compliance with safety and hygiene norms.

5. GST Registration

Register under GST for tax purposes and to claim export incentives.

6. APEDA Registration

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) registration helps you access export subsidies, global trade fairs, and financial support schemes.

4. Types of Tea You Can Export from India

India offers a wide range of teas suitable for global export markets. Below are some popular types:

5. How to Source Tea for Export

Sourcing plays a crucial role in maintaining quality and buyer satisfaction. You can:

• Buy directly from registered tea gardens or auctions (like Kolkata Tea Auction).
• Partner with certified suppliers like Exaplus International, who provide bulk tea with export-grade packaging and documentation support.

Working with experienced suppliers ensures:

• Uniform quality control
• Pre-tested and certified teas
• Efficient packaging and labeling
• Ready documentation for customs clearance

6. Tea Export Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to export tea from India successfully:

Step 1: Market Research

Study international markets — identify countries with high tea consumption (e.g., UK, Russia, UAE, Germany).
Understand import duties, labeling norms, and pricing structures.

Step 2: Select the Right Tea Supplier

Choose a reputed Indian tea supplier such as Exaplus International to ensure reliability and consistent quality.

Step 3: Tea Quality Testing

Before shipment, every batch must undergo quality testing and grading under Tea Board and FSSAI guidelines.

Step 4: Packaging and Branding

Export packaging must ensure freshness and aroma retention.
Most exporters use moisture-proof pouches, aluminum foil packs, tin boxes, or eco-friendly paper bags.

Step 5: Documentation

Required export documents include:

• Invoice & Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• FSSAI Certificate
• Phytosanitary Certificate
• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
• Tea Board Export License

Step 6: Shipping & Logistics

Partner with reliable freight forwarders. Tea is usually exported via sea freight in temperature-controlled containers.

Step 7: Payment & Insurance

Use Letter of Credit (L/C) or Advance Payment terms. Always ensure Marine Insurance coverage for protection against transit risks.

7. Top Tea Importing Countries for India

The following nations are India’s major tea buyers:

• Russia
• United Kingdom
• United States
• United Arab Emirates
• Germany
• Japan
• Iran
• Egypt
• Saudi Arabia
• Poland

Indian tea, particularly Assam and Darjeeling, enjoys huge popularity in these regions for its distinctive character and freshness.

8. Role of Exaplus International in India’s Tea Exports

Exaplus International stands as a trusted name in India’s tea export industry, helping global buyers source authentic and premium-quality tea varieties.

What Makes Exaplus International a Reliable Partner:

• Direct connections with top tea estates in Assam and Darjeeling
• Export-ready packaging and labeling support
• 100% natural, chemical-free, and freshly processed teas
• Expertise in documentation, shipment, and compliance
• Customized solutions for bulk and private label exports

The company supplies CTC Tea, Orthodox Tea, Green Tea, Herbal Tea, and Specialty Blends, ensuring every shipment reflects India’s tea excellence.

Whether you’re a global distributor, wholesaler, or retail brand owner, partnering with Exaplus International ensures quality, consistency, and smooth export operations.

9. Packaging Standards for Tea Export

Proper packaging is vital for tea exports as it helps maintain freshness and aroma during long-distance shipping.

Recommended Export Packaging:

• Multi-layer foil pouches
• Tin or paper canisters
• Vacuum-sealed bags
• Bulk HDPE or jute sacks (for wholesalers)

All packages must include:

• Brand name
• Net weight
• Country of origin
• Batch number
• FSSAI and Tea Board license details

10. Tea Export Profit Margin & Business Scope

The profit margin in tea export ranges between 15% to 35%, depending on the product type and target market. Organic and premium teas fetch even higher margins.

With rising global demand for health-based and organic beverages, 2025 presents immense potential for new entrants in the Indian tea export market.

By partnering with expert companies like Exaplus International, even new exporters can enter the trade confidently with ready-to-export products.

11. Tips to Succeed in Tea Export Business

• Focus on premium quality and consistency.
• Build strong relationships with tea gardens and suppliers.
• Stay updated on global trade policies and import rules.
• Participate in international tea fairs (Dubai, London, Hong Kong).
• Offer private label options to attract retail buyers.
• Ensure eco-friendly packaging and sustainability certifications.

Conclusion: Make Your Mark in Global Tea Trade

Exporting tea from India in 2025 is a golden opportunity for businesses aiming to enter the global food and beverage industry. With high-quality tea, government support, and growing international demand, the future of Indian tea exports looks bright.

Partnering with a reliable exporter like Exaplus International can simplify your export journey — from sourcing and packaging to compliance and shipping.

If you’re planning to start your own tea export business from India, begin with quality, certification, and consistency — the three pillars that define India’s global tea success story.