Tea Board Registration- Documents, Process, and Government Fee

Tea Board Registration- Documents, Process, and Government Fee. India is one of the largest producers and exporters of tea in the world. To regulate and promote the tea industry in India, the Tea Board of India was set up under the Tea Act, 1953. It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. This statutory body plays a vital role in the development, promotion, and export of Indian tea and ensures that the standards of tea production and trade are maintained across the country. If you are a tea producer, exporter, importer, or packer, it is essential to register with the Tea Board of India to carry out your business legally. In this article, we will explain what the Tea Board is, its functions, the types of licenses it issues, the required documents, the Tea Board registration process, and the applicable government fee.
What is the Tea Board of India?
The Tea Board of India was established in 1954 under the provisions of the Tea Act, 1953. The main objective of the Board is to promote the cultivation, processing, and marketing of tea, both in India and globally. Headquartered in Kolkata, the Board also has regional offices in major tea-producing states such as Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
The Tea Board acts as a facilitator and regulator for all stakeholders in the tea industry. It issues licenses for various tea-related activities, enforces quality control standards, promotes Indian tea in the international market, and works towards the welfare of workers in tea plantations. It also provides financial assistance to tea growers under various schemes for modernization, quality improvement, and export promotion.
Why is Registration with the Tea Board Important?
Registering with the Tea Board of India is mandatory for businesses engaged in activities such as:

Tea manufacturing

Tea exporting

Tea importing

Tea packaging and branding

Tea auction participation

Buying and selling tea in bulk

Without proper registration, a business cannot legally carry out these activities. The Tea Board registration acts as a legal proof that the business complies with all the guidelines under the Tea Act. It also enables businesses to avail government benefits and schemes meant for the tea sector.
Functions of the Tea Board of India
The Tea Board performs several important functions that support the growth and regulation of the Indian tea industry. These include:
1. Development of Tea Cultivation
The Board provides subsidies, grants, and financial support to small tea growers, cooperative societies, and private companies to promote tea cultivation, especially in less developed regions.
2. Export Promotion
It takes active steps to promote Indian tea brands abroad by participating in international fairs, organizing campaigns, and offering incentives to exporters.
3. Licensing and Regulation
The Board issues licenses for manufacturing, exporting, and importing tea. It ensures compliance with quality standards and packaging norms for tea traded in domestic and international markets.
4. Quality Control
Through its Tea Quality Control Laboratories, the Board monitors the quality of tea produced and exported from India. It ensures that Indian tea meets international standards.
5. Research and Development
The Board funds and supports research institutions working on tea plant improvement, pest control, organic cultivation, and better processing methods.
6. Welfare of Tea Workers
It supports schemes for the social welfare of tea garden workers, including housing, education, and health care facilities.
Types of Licenses Issued by the Tea Board
Depending on the nature of the business, the Tea Board of India issues various licenses and registrations:

Exporter’s Registration: Businesses or individuals who want to export tea from India need to obtain an exporter’s registration from the Tea Board.

Importer’s Registration: Importers bringing tea into India must register with the Board to carry out legal import activities.

Tea Manufacturer’s Registration: This license is required by tea processing factories and units that manufacture tea from green leaves.

Auction Organizer License: This is required by entities that organize or participate in tea auctions across the country.

Tea Packer’s Registration: Companies or individuals involved in tea packing and branding must register as tea packers with the Tea Board.

Tea Warehouse Registration: Tea warehouses and cold storage units also need to register with the Board if they are storing or preserving tea.

Documents Required for Tea Board Registration
The set of documents required depends on the type of license being applied for. However, here is a list of commonly required documents:

PAN Card of the applicant or company

Certificate of Incorporation in case of a company or LLP

GST Registration Certificate

FSSAI Registration or FSSAI License (FSSAI State License or FSSAI Central License), if applicable

IEC Code Certificate for exporters/importers

Address Proof of the business premises

Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque

Photographs of authorized signatories

MOA & AOA or Partnership Deed (depending on business type)

Factory License or Trade License (if Manufacturing)

Electricity Bill or any other utility bill as address proof

Undertaking/Declaration as prescribed by the Tea Board

Each application should be accompanied by a duly signed application form and documents must be self-attested and scanned clearly before uploading.
Step-by-Step Process for Tea Board Registration
The process of registration with the Tea Board can be completed online through the official Tea Board portal. Below are the steps involved:
Step 1: Visit the Tea Board Website
Go to the official website of the Tea Board of India (https://www.teaboard.gov.in/) and choose the relevant registration option based on your business activity.
Step 2: Select the Type of License
Choose whether you are registering as an exporter, importer, manufacturer, packer, or any other category. Each category has its own set of forms and document requirements.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Download and fill out the online application form with accurate details such as business name, address, type of activity, and contact information.
Step 4: Upload the Required Documents
Scan and upload all necessary documents in the prescribed format. Make sure each document is clear and readable.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Once the documents are uploaded, the applicant needs to pay the prescribed government fee through online modes like Net Banking or Debit/Credit card.
Step 6: Application Review and Verification
The Tea Board will review your application, verify the documents, and may conduct a physical inspection or seek clarification if required.
Step 7: Issuance of Certificate
Once all requirements are met, the Tea Board issues the registration certificate or license, which is generally valid for a specific period (usually 5 years), after which it needs to be renewed.
Government Fees for Tea Board Registration
The government fee for registration depends on the type of license being applied for. The fees are subject to revision from time to time. Here’s an indicative structure:

Type of Registration

Government Fee (INR)

Exporter’s Registration

Rs.5,000

Importer’s Registration

Rs.5,000

Manufacturer’s License

Rs.5,000 to Rs.10,000

Packer’s Registration

Rs.5,000

Auction Organizer License

Rs.10,000

Warehouse Registration

Rs.5,000

Note: GST may be applicable on the above fees. Applicants should also check the latest fee on the official website before submission.
Validity and Renewal of Tea Board License
The license or registration granted by the Tea Board is usually valid for five years from the date of issue. It is important to apply for renewal well before the expiry date to avoid penalties or cancellation.
To renew the license:

Submit a renewal application on the portal.

Upload updated documents if there are any changes.

Pay the renewal fee.

Await approval and issuance of a fresh certificate.

Late renewal may attract additional charges or may require re-registration.
Benefits of Tea Board Registration
Tea Board registration comes with several benefits for businesses in the tea sector:

Legal authorization to manufacture, export, import, or trade in tea

Access to Tea Board’s subsidy and support schemes

Eligibility for participation in international tea trade fairs and promotional events

Improved credibility among buyers and global partners

Right to use the India Tea Logo and other promotional material

Access to research and quality improvement programs by the Tea Board

Conclusion
The Tea Board of India plays a pivotal role in regulating and supporting the Indian tea industry. From issuing licenses to maintaining quality standards and providing export support, the Board ensures that Indian tea maintains its global reputation. Registering with the Tea Board is not just a legal formality—it is a gateway to several growth opportunities in the domestic and international tea trade.
For any business aiming to succeed in the tea industry, understanding and following the Tea Board registration process is essential. With the right documentation, compliance, and timely renewal, businesses can fully leverage the benefits and support offered by the Tea Board of India. 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Tea Board registration mandatory for all tea-related businesses?
Ans. Yes. Any business involved in the manufacturing, export, import, packaging, or auctioning of tea in India must register with the Tea Board.
Q2. Can I apply for multiple licenses under one business name?
Ans. Yes. A business can hold multiple registrations such as manufacturer and exporter, provided it fulfills the eligibility criteria and submits the necessary documents for each license.
Q3. How long does it take to get Tea Board registration?
Ans. Generally, the registration process takes 15-30 working days, depending on document verification and physical inspection (if required).
Q4. Can I export tea without Tea Board registration?
Ans. No. Exporting tea without a valid Tea Board registration is illegal under the Tea Act, 1953.
Q5. Is there any penalty for non-renewal of the license?
Ans. Yes. Operating with an expired license can attract penalties, and the business may be blacklisted from Tea Board schemes or participation in auctions.

India is one of the largest producers and exporters of tea in the world. To regulate and promote the tea industry in India, the Tea Board of India was set up under the Tea Act, 1953. It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. This statutory body plays a vital role in the development, promotion, and export of Indian tea and ensures that the standards of tea production and trade are maintained across the country. If you are a tea producer, exporter, importer, or packer, it is essential to register with the Tea Board of India to carry out your business legally. In this article, we will explain what the Tea Board is, its functions, the types of licenses it issues, the required documents, the Tea Board registration process, and the applicable government fee.

What is the Tea Board of India?

The Tea Board of India was established in 1954 under the provisions of the Tea Act, 1953. The main objective of the Board is to promote the cultivation, processing, and marketing of tea, both in India and globally. Headquartered in Kolkata, the Board also has regional offices in major tea-producing states such as Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.

The Tea Board acts as a facilitator and regulator for all stakeholders in the tea industry. It issues licenses for various tea-related activities, enforces quality control standards, promotes Indian tea in the international market, and works towards the welfare of workers in tea plantations. It also provides financial assistance to tea growers under various schemes for modernization, quality improvement, and export promotion.

Why is Registration with the Tea Board Important?

Registering with the Tea Board of India is mandatory for businesses engaged in activities such as:

Tea manufacturing
Tea exporting
Tea importing
Tea packaging and branding
Tea auction participation
Buying and selling tea in bulk

Functions of the Tea Board of India

The Tea Board performs several important functions that support the growth and regulation of the Indian tea industry. These include:

1. Development of Tea Cultivation

The Board provides subsidies, grants, and financial support to small tea growers, cooperative societies, and private companies to promote tea cultivation, especially in less developed regions.

2. Export Promotion

It takes active steps to promote Indian tea brands abroad by participating in international fairs, organizing campaigns, and offering incentives to exporters.

3. Licensing and Regulation

The Board issues licenses for manufacturing, exporting, and importing tea. It ensures compliance with quality standards and packaging norms for tea traded in domestic and international markets.

4. Quality Control

Through its Tea Quality Control Laboratories, the Board monitors the quality of tea produced and exported from India. It ensures that Indian tea meets international standards.

5. Research and Development

The Board funds and supports research institutions working on tea plant improvement, pest control, organic cultivation, and better processing methods.

6. Welfare of Tea Workers

It supports schemes for the social welfare of tea garden workers, including housing, education, and health care facilities.

Types of Licenses Issued by the Tea Board

Depending on the nature of the business, the Tea Board of India issues various licenses and registrations:

Exporter’s Registration: Businesses or individuals who want to export tea from India need to obtain an exporter’s registration from the Tea Board.
Importer’s Registration: Importers bringing tea into India must register with the Board to carry out legal import activities.
Tea Manufacturer’s Registration: This license is required by tea processing factories and units that manufacture tea from green leaves.
Auction Organizer License: This is required by entities that organize or participate in tea auctions across the country.
Tea Packer’s Registration: Companies or individuals involved in tea packing and branding must register as tea packers with the Tea Board.
Tea Warehouse Registration: Tea warehouses and cold storage units also need to register with the Board if they are storing or preserving tea.

Documents Required for Tea Board Registration

The set of documents required depends on the type of license being applied for. However, here is a list of commonly required documents:

PAN Card of the applicant or company
Certificate of Incorporation in case of a company or LLP
GST Registration Certificate
FSSAI Registration or FSSAI License (FSSAI State License or FSSAI Central License), if applicable
IEC Code Certificate for exporters/importers
Address Proof of the business premises
Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque
Photographs of authorized signatories
MOA & AOA or Partnership Deed (depending on business type)
Factory License or Trade License (if Manufacturing)
Electricity Bill or any other utility bill as address proof
Undertaking/Declaration as prescribed by the Tea Board

Each application should be accompanied by a duly signed application form and documents must be self-attested and scanned clearly before uploading.

Step-by-Step Process for Tea Board Registration

The process of registration with the Tea Board can be completed online through the official Tea Board portal. Below are the steps involved:

Step 1: Visit the Tea Board Website

Go to the official website of the Tea Board of India (https://www.teaboard.gov.in/) and choose the relevant registration option based on your business activity.

Step 2: Select the Type of License

Choose whether you are registering as an exporter, importer, manufacturer, packer, or any other category. Each category has its own set of forms and document requirements.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Download and fill out the online application form with accurate details such as business name, address, type of activity, and contact information.

Step 4: Upload the Required Documents

Scan and upload all necessary documents in the prescribed format. Make sure each document is clear and readable.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Once the documents are uploaded, the applicant needs to pay the prescribed government fee through online modes like Net Banking or Debit/Credit card.

Step 6: Application Review and Verification

The Tea Board will review your application, verify the documents, and may conduct a physical inspection or seek clarification if required.

Step 7: Issuance of Certificate

Once all requirements are met, the Tea Board issues the registration certificate or license, which is generally valid for a specific period (usually 5 years), after which it needs to be renewed.

Government Fees for Tea Board Registration

The government fee for registration depends on the type of license being applied for. The fees are subject to revision from time to time. Here’s an indicative structure:

Type of Registration	Government Fee (INR)
Exporter’s Registration	Rs.5,000
Importer’s Registration	Rs.5,000
Manufacturer’s License	Rs.5,000 to Rs.10,000
Packer’s Registration	Rs.5,000
Auction Organizer License	Rs.10,000
Warehouse Registration	Rs.5,000

Note: GST may be applicable on the above fees. Applicants should also check the latest fee on the official website before submission.

Validity and Renewal of Tea Board License

The license or registration granted by the Tea Board is usually valid for five years from the date of issue. It is important to apply for renewal well before the expiry date to avoid penalties or cancellation.

To renew the license:

Submit a renewal application on the portal.
Upload updated documents if there are any changes.
Pay the renewal fee.
Await approval and issuance of a fresh certificate.

Late renewal may attract additional charges or may require re-registration.

Benefits of Tea Board Registration

Tea Board registration comes with several benefits for businesses in the tea sector:

Legal authorization to manufacture, export, import, or trade in tea
Access to Tea Board’s subsidy and support schemes
Eligibility for participation in international tea trade fairs and promotional events
Improved credibility among buyers and global partners
Right to use the India Tea Logo and other promotional material
Access to research and quality improvement programs by the Tea Board

Conclusion

The Tea Board of India plays a pivotal role in regulating and supporting the Indian tea industry. From issuing licenses to maintaining quality standards and providing export support, the Board ensures that Indian tea maintains its global reputation. Registering with the Tea Board is not just a legal formality—it is a gateway to several growth opportunities in the domestic and international tea trade.

For any business aiming to succeed in the tea industry, understanding and following the Tea Board registration process is essential. With the right documentation, compliance, and timely renewal, businesses can fully leverage the benefits and support offered by the Tea Board of India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is Tea Board registration mandatory for all tea-related businesses?

Ans. Yes. Any business involved in the manufacturing, export, import, packaging, or auctioning of tea in India must register with the Tea Board.

Q2. Can I apply for multiple licenses under one business name?

Ans. Yes. A business can hold multiple registrations such as manufacturer and exporter, provided it fulfills the eligibility criteria and submits the necessary documents for each license.

Q3. How long does it take to get Tea Board registration?

Ans. Generally, the registration process takes 15-30 working days, depending on document verification and physical inspection (if required).

Q4. Can I export tea without Tea Board registration?

Ans. No. Exporting tea without a valid Tea Board registration is illegal under the Tea Act, 1953.

Q5. Is there any penalty for non-renewal of the license?

Ans. Yes. Operating with an expired license can attract penalties, and the business may be blacklisted from Tea Board schemes or participation in auctions.