Date:26/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/26/stories/2008122656221500.htm

Business

Nilgiri tea exports set to double

Special Correspondent

KOLKATA: Amid rising hopes on the export front following the Geographical Indication (GI) registration, Nilgiri teas, hitherto used mostly for blending purposes, is to be launched now as single-estate teas giving it a distinct identity and a much required stamp of recognition. At present, about 65 per cent of the annual output of 16-20 million kg of the premium Nilgiri teas is exported to countries like the Netherlands, the U.K., Germany, Russia and speciality tea markets in the U.S. as a niche product. This is expected to be doubled following the registration under the Geographical Indications (Registration and Protection) Act 1999, received recently. “The registration will greatly enhance the image and acceptability of the Nilgiri orthodox tea with the consumers as the GI logo will carry the message of the uniqueness of Nilgiri teas. We are aiming at doubling exports to 20 million kg in four years,” Executive Director of Tea Board R. D. Nadeem told The Hindu.

He said orthodox tea was manufactured in 41 factories in the Nilgiris.