Tea has been a cornerstone of human culture for over 4,000 years, originating in ancient China as a medicinal beverage. Its journey in India began in the early 19th century, with Assam emerging as a global tea powerhouse. In 1823, Major Robert Bruce discovered the native tea plant (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) in Assam’s Brahmaputra Valley, guided by Maniram Dutta Baruah, also known as Maniram Dewan, who connected Bruce with the Singpho tribe. By 1839, Dewan established his own tea gardens, becoming one of the first indigenous tea planters in Assam.
In 1838, the first consignment of Assam tea was auctioned in London, launching its global journey.
Assam produces between 650-700 million kgs of tea annually which is more than 50% of India’s annual Tea Production. The industry employs over 7,00,000 workers. Over 50% of Assam’s Tea Production is contributed by the Small Tea Growers.
| ASSAM PRODUCTION (MKG) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Assam Valley | Cachar | Total Assam | Total India |
| 2024 | 610.52 | 39.32 | 649.84 | 1285 |
| 2023 | 649.15 | 39.18 | 688.33 | 1394 |
| 2022 | 647.77 | 40.93 | 688.7 | 1366 |
| 2021 | 623.79 | 43.94 | 667.73 | 1343 |
| 2020 | 577.88 | 40.32 | 618.2 | 1258 |
| 2019 | 671.44 | 45.05 | 716.49 | 1390 |
| Source: Tea Board | ||||
1. Assam tea is predominantly black tea, derived from the Camellia sinensis var. assamica plant, which is native to the region. The two primary processing methods are:
2. Assam tea is characterized by its strong, malty flavour. Its deep amber colour and full-bodied nature make it suitable for pairing with milk and sugar. The flavour varies by flush:
Briskness, a hallmark of Assam tea, refers to its astringent quality that creates a lively, refreshing sensation in the mouth.
3. Assam also produces speciality teas like green and white teas.
The USA has a deep connection with tea, dating back to the 18th Century. Sir Percival Griffiths’, ex Advisor, ITA in his book, “The History of the Indian Tea Industry” has stated that in response to the demand of New Yorkers for good water for preparing Tea, the City authorities in 1757 had built a tea-water pump at Chatham and Roosevelt streets, this was confirmed by William Harrison Ukers, a prominent figure in the New York tea and coffee trade.
In 1893, the Indian Tea Association (ITA) promoted Indian tea at the Chicago World Fair, with a stunning pavilion showcasing India’s tea heritage.
The Government of Assam promotes Tea Tourism. Many Tea Estates are venturing into Tea Tourism by reaping the benefits of the Tea Tourism Policy of Govt. of Assam. Tea Tourism in Assam offers experiences like tea tasting, forest treks, golf, and nature tours. Visitors can explore heritage bungalows, tea factories, and wildlife footprints, celebrating the coexistence of tea gardens and biodiversity. Assam’s tea estates are ideal for eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and heritage circuits, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Till today Assam has the highest density of Golf Courses with Club Houses that is an added attraction for an exotic Tourism Package.
| Company | Company Website |
| Goodricke Group Ltd. | www.goodricke.com |
| MK Shah Exports Ltd. | www.mksel.com |
| Rossell Tea (Division of Rossell India Ltd.) |
www.rossellindia.com |
| Luxmi Tea Co Pvt Ltd. | www.luxmitea.com |
What Indian Tea Association (ITA) can ease for Prospective Buyers ?
