Tea exporters in India must register with the Tea Board of India, the statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry set up under the Tea Act, 1953, and hold its exporter licence. Registration applies to exporters of bulk and packet tea, whether merchant or manufacturer exporters. You apply online with your IEC, PAN, GST and business documents.
Who needs Tea Board registration?
- Exporters of bulk tea
- Exporters of packet tea, tea bags and instant tea
- Merchant exporters buying from auctions or gardens, and manufacturer exporters
Documents you need
- IEC, PAN and GST registration
- Proof of business constitution and address
- Bank certificate or cancelled cheque
- FSSAI licence, since tea is a food product
How to apply
- Apply on the Tea Board portalRegister with your business and IEC details.
- Choose the licence typeExporter licence for bulk or packet tea, as applicable.
- Upload documents and pay the feePay the fee shown on the portal.
- Receive the licenceKeep it valid and renew before expiry.
Quality and market rules
Importing countries set limits on pesticide residues and contaminants in tea, and many buyers ask for lab reports with each lot. Darjeeling tea is a registered geographical indication, so its name can only be used for tea from the defined area.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tea Board registration mandatory for exporting tea?
Yes. Tea exporters must be registered with the Tea Board and hold its exporter licence.
Do packet tea exporters need registration?
Yes. Both bulk and packet tea exporters need it.
Is FSSAI licence also needed?
Yes. Tea is a food product, so the business also needs the appropriate FSSAI licence.
Where is the Tea Board located?
Its headquarters are in Kolkata.
How BuyGenix Solutions helps
We prepare and file the registration, keep it renewed and connect it with your IEC, GST and RCMC. BuyGenix members can also see live buyer requirements for their products from importers in India and abroad.
Need Help Getting This Done?
BuyGenix Solutions handles tea board registration and every related registration your business needs, from documentation to filing.
Get Registration Help →Looking for buyers for your products?
See live requirements from importers and bulk buyers in India and abroad: what they want, how much, and where. Contact them directly with a BuyGenix membership.
