The Indian Tea Association urged the government to increase the reward base rate under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) for black tea in bulk to remain competitive in the international markets.

A spokesperson for the Indian Tea Association (ITA), a leading planters' body, attributed the stagnation to the loss of the Iranian market. Iran, once a major importer of Indian tea, significantly reduced its purchases due to payment problems stemming from US sanctions. In 2023, Iran's imports of Indian tea plummeted to around 5.16 million kilograms, a dramatic drop from 54 million kilograms in 2019.

Small tea growers in the state face survival threat over quality compliance regulations.

To promote the habit of tea drinking, the association distributed around 5,000 cups of free tea to residents of Siliguri, aiming to attract younger generations who have increasingly turned to trendy beverages.