In a bid to give Kenya, the largest producer of tea, a run for the money, Assam may incorporate the low-cost tea production method of neighbouring country Bangladesh. This novel initiative is being mulled after Dr Atiur Rahman, professor, department of development studies, University of Dhaka stressed on the need for working in a cohesive manner in the tea sector. Dr Rahman is here in the city to attend a seminar on Indo-Bangla Trade.
“There is a need to specialise on different aspects of tea blending both by Assam and Bangladesh, which can help both the region to capture new markets in the global scenario,” stressed Dr Rahman.
Reciprocating the proposal, Dipanjol Deka, secretary general, Tea Association of India told The Assam Tribune that he would take up the matter with the Tea Board of India.
However, he maintained that nothing could be said with certainty about the idea, as the feasibility of the proposal would have to be considered in a detailed manner before going ahead with the same.
“Like Kenya where the cost of production of tea is 30 per cent less than that of Assam, Bangladesh too has a very low production cost, which is an aspect that can be cashed in on,” said Deka, adding that Bangladesh too is blessed with a unique blend of tea produce.
Another senior official, when asked, further informed that both Bangladesh and Assam can reap unprecedented dividend if the proposal materializes and would help both the sides emerge as a top force in the tea sector.
“If Assam can lower the cost of its tea production, it would undoubtedly act as a fillip to its presence in the global market,” he pointed out.
“As both the sides have put special emphasis on tea production in the recent past, there are chances for the proposal getting the green signal,” the official added.
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