India’s tea returned by many countries, said – it contains too many pesticides
New Delhi, 4th June 2022: Anshuman Kanoria, President of Association of Tea Exporters of India has said that international and domestic buyers have returned a series of tea consignments due to exceeding the permissible limits of pesticides and chemicals. The Tea Board of India is looking to boost exports as Sri Lanka’s position in the global tea market weakens, however, outbound shipments are declining due to rejection of consignments.
Relaxation in FSSAI norms
Kaneria told PTI that all tea sold in the country should conform to the norms of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). However, most buyers are buying tea that has an unusually high chemical content.
Kaneria further pointed out that instead of following the law many people are urging the government to make the FSSAI norms more liberal but it will give a wrong signal as the drink is considered a health drink.
Board aims to export 30 crore kg of tea
Kanoria has told that many countries are following strict rules for tea. Most countries follow EU standards which are more stringent than FSSAI regulations. In 2021, India exported 195.90 million kg of tea. The major buyers were Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries and Iran. The board aims to achieve export of 300 million kg of tea this year. India has exported tea worth Rs 5,246.89 crore in 2021.
Turkey rejected India’s wheat
Turkey has returned 56877 tonnes of Indian wheat. Turkey rejected Indian wheat consignment on grounds of phytosanitary concerns and sent it back to India. Turkey has given the reason behind this that rubella virus has been found in Indian wheat. That’s why they are sending it back.
