Solidaridad and Indian Tea Association host the prestigious Asian Tea Alliance meet to foster regional collaboration, drive innovation, and honour outstanding small tea growers
Kolkata, India – November 7, 2024 – The Asia Tea Alliance (ATA) today convened in Kolkata, bringing together tea industry leaders, representatives from apex associations, and Tea Boards from across Asia’s largest tea-producing nations. This prestigious event held once every year to address the challenges facing the tea industry and set a unified path toward sustainable and equitable growth. This year’s event was hosted by global sustainability organization - Solidaridad and the Indian Tea Association.
The summit, held at Hotel Taj Bengal, witnessed participation from key tea associations and representatives from the Tea Boards of India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, and China. ATA, unite with the vision of advancing a sustainable and resilient tea sector in Asia, has become a central platform for collaboration, policy development, and knowledge exchange among Asia’s tea-producing countries.
Asia International Tea Summit: A Platform for Change
In its commitment to addressing the tea industry’s evolving challenges, the Asia International Tea Summit provided a platform for in-depth discussions on critical issues, including sustainability, market volatility, and climate impacts on tea production. These discussions underscored the urgent need for coordinated action across the region to build resilience and promote the economic welfare of smallholders who form the backbone of the industry.
“Tea is a cornerstone of rural economies in Asia, but the challenges we face today require collaboration and innovation. Formed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by tea producers in Asia, the ATA is committed to creating a more resilient and prosperous tea sector,” - Mr Hemant Bangur, Chairman, Asia Tea Alliance
The summit also spotlighted the growing importance of carbon trading opportunities, aligning with global sustainability goals, and enhancing tea quality through technology and innovation. In response to market demands, ATA members explored collaborative measures to reduce carbon footprints, establish fair pricing mechanisms, and promote responsible sourcing across Asian markets.
Honouring Excellence: Asia Tea Alliance Awards
To celebrate and recognise excellence among small tea growers, the Asia Tea Alliance hosted a prestigious award ceremony honouring innovation and quality in tea production. The awards were categorised to reflect both machine-made and handmade artisanal teas, acknowledging small growers who uphold the highest standards in each segment. Mrs Rituparna Sen Gupta, an acclaimed film personality and prominent supporter of social and environmental causes, graced the event as the Guest of Honour and presented the awards.
Awards were presented in the following categories:
• Machine-made Teas: Black CTC, Black Orthodox, and Green Tea.
• Handmade Artisanal Teas: All varieties of speciality teas, including white, yellow, and oolong.
• Special Recognition: A unique award category was introduced to honour individuals or groups demonstrating innovation and outstanding achievement in tea production.
“Growing up, tea wasn’t my first choice. But as I learned about its incredible health benefits and the dedication of smallholders who bring us each cup, tea—especially green and oolong—became a source of joy and wellness. Today, I am honoured to join the Asia Tea Alliance Excellence Awards, hosted by Solidaridad and the Indian Tea Association, to celebrate an industry built on the resilience of its farmers. The future of tea rests on our commitment to uplift these smallholders and address the social and environmental challenges they face.” – Rituparna Sengupta, National Award-Winning Actor-Dancer-Producer, Guest of Honour
A United Vision for Asia’s Tea Sector
ATA’s vision to secure a sustainable, economically viable tea sector was central to the discussions. The alliance is committed to enhancing the living and working conditions of tea workers, advocating fair returns for tea producers, and ensuring a steady, high-quality supply of tea to consumers worldwide. The summit also served as a forum for ATA members to exchange insights, address regional challenges, and collaborate on achieving shared objectives outlined in ATA’s manifesto.
The ATA was established to amplify the voices of Asia’s tea-producing nations and foster collective progress toward sustainability. Through collaborative efforts, the ATA seeks to position the Asian tea sector as a global leader in sustainable and responsible production practices.
“Through the ATA, we aim to promote sustainable practices, drive economic growth, and ensure that all stakeholders—especially small tea growers—benefit from a more equitable tea industry,” - Dr. Shatadru Chattopadhyay, Managing Director, Solidaridad Asia.
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