Archive · 30 May 2025
New EU Regulations Threaten Assam Tea Exports
The EU is implementing new rules about chemicals used to grow tea in India, particularly in Assam.
These regulations limit how much of certain chemicals can be present on the tea leaves, worrying tea companies.
They are seeking more time to find alternative pest control methods before the changes fully take effect.
Importers are concerned about the ability to sell the tea.
If the rules stay in place, the tea industry could suffer losses and fewer people may have access to the same teas.
New EU regulations restrict chemical compounds in Indian tea production, especially Assam.
The regulations limit Thiamethoxam and Clothianidin to 0.05 ppm by March 2026, with Thiacloprid restrictions already in place.
Indian organizations seek time to phase out existing chemicals until alternatives get approved.
EU and UK importers worry about complying with the regulations, impacting tea stocks.
German tea importers appealed to Assam CM, highlighting Assam tea's importance to their blends.
- Who
- Assam tea industry, EU regulators, and tea importers.
- What
- New EU regulations restricting certain chemicals used in tea production, potentially impacting exports.
- When
- Restrictions on Thiacloprid effective from May; Thiamethoxam and Clothianidin starting March 2026
- Where
- Assam, India, and the European Union
- Why
- To limit the maximum residue levels of specific chemical compounds used in tea production.
Indian Tea Industry
EU Regulators
Compliance Timeline
Indian Tea Industry
Seeks more time and alternative solutions to comply with the new regulations.
EU Regulators
Implements the new regulations to restrict certain chemical compounds used in tea production.
- India's tea exports to EU and UK
- 53 million kgs per annum
- Estimated Assam tea exports affected
- 40 million kgs
- MRL of Thiamethoxam and Clothianidin from March 2026
- 0.05 ppm
- TRA Tocklai requested transition period
- 5-year
