The New Regulatory Proposal
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has circulated draft regulations proposing new Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for two specific pesticides used in tea cultivation. The draft, published on October 16, 2026, sets a limit of 20 milligrams
per kilogram (mg/kg) for Acetamiprid and 50 mg/kg for Imidacloprid. An MRL is the highest legally permitted concentration of a pesticide residue in a food product. It isn't a measure of what's currently in your tea, but a legal benchmark for growers, processors, and regulators to ensure safety and quality control across the supply chain. These proposed rules are currently open for stakeholder consultation before they are finalised.
Why Stricter Standards Now?
The push for defined MRLs comes from several directions. For years, the absence of notified limits for these specific, widely used pesticides has created uncertainty for the industry. Growers and manufacturers found themselves in a difficult position, as tea consignments could be rejected, sometimes leading to significant financial losses. The new rules aim to provide clear, science-based standards. Furthermore, this move helps align Indian tea with stringent international markets, particularly in Europe and Japan, which have their own strict MRLs. By establishing its own clear benchmarks—for instance, the proposed limit for Acetamiprid is lower than those in the US and Japan—India signals its commitment to quality and safety, which is crucial for the export market.
Hope and Concern in the Tea Gardens
The reaction from the tea industry is a mix of cautious optimism and significant concern. For many, especially Small Tea Growers (STGs) who account for about half of Assam's production, the clear guidelines are a welcome development. They have long sought clarity to avoid crop losses and penalties. The Confederation of Indian Small Tea Growers Associations had previously highlighted how the lack of MRLs put them at risk. However, implementing these standards is not without challenges. The primary concern is the cost and practicality of shifting to new pest management strategies. Access to affordable and effective alternatives, as well as the infrastructure for testing, will be critical. The call for more testing laboratories and mobile facilities highlights the need for a supportive ecosystem to help growers comply with the new norms.
Impact on Exports and Your Cup
The new regulations could be a double-edged sword. On one hand, meeting globally recognised standards can boost the reputation and competitiveness of Indian tea abroad, potentially opening up more lucrative markets. It assures international buyers that Indian tea adheres to high safety protocols. On the other hand, if a large number of growers struggle to meet the new limits, it could disrupt the supply chain. This could affect both the volume of tea available for export and the supply in the domestic market. In the past, bought-leaf factories have threatened to stop accepting leaves over pesticide residue concerns, a situation that could be exacerbated during the transition period if growers are not adequately supported. For consumers, the long-term goal is a safer, higher-quality cup of tea. In the short term, any significant disruption in production could potentially influence prices.
