Tea factories in Jhapa and Ilam have resumed their operations after the Nepal Tea Producers Association decided to withdraw their protest programs. The decision to reopen the factories comes after the government provided assurances to address the ongoing challenges in the tea sector, particularly regarding export hurdles to India.
According to a press release issued by the association, the entrepreneurs decided to run the factories again to respect the positive steps taken by the government. The shutdown had severely affected local farmers and daily wage workers who depend heavily on the tea industry for their livelihood.
Export Issues with India
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The tea factories were shut down after the Indian Tea Board implemented a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that created unexpected barriers for Nepali tea exports. This regulatory change halted the smooth flow of tea across the border, forcing Nepali producers to suspend their manufacturing activities.
In response to the crisis, the government formed a special task force on Asar 8 to investigate the export issues and recommend solutions. This task force is led by a joint secretary from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.
The task force has been assigned the responsibility of resolving both technical and trade-related issues in tea exports. It is also tasked with identifying the challenges faced by local farmers and finding ways to promote Nepali tea in international markets. The association has expressed hope that the government’s intervention will bring a permanent solution to the recurring export problems.