Dry Period Since November May Affect Tea Output and Raise Prices

Feb, 2023 - By WMR

The ongoing dry period, which has been impacting tea production in various tea-growing regions since November, may need tea enthusiasts to prepare for a sharp increase in tea costs.

India, one of the largest tea producers in the world, has been experiencing a shortage of rainfall since the last quarter of 2022. According to reports, the production of tea in India has dropped by 15-20% due to the prolonged dry spell.

The lack of rainfall has resulted in a severe water crisis in many tea-growing areas of the country, which has adversely affected the growth and quality of tea leaves. The dry spell has impacted tea production in several states including Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, which account for a significant proportion of India's total tea production.

The tea industry in India, which employs millions of people and is a major contributor to the country's economy, is expected to face major losses due to the drop in production. The fall in tea production is likely to cause an increase in the prices of tea, affecting the consumer's pocket.

The situation is no different in other tea-growing regions around the world. For instance, in Kenya, one of the largest tea exporters in the world, the dry spell has affected the growth and yield of tea bushes, leading to a 40% drop in tea production. This has resulted in a decrease in exports and a steep increase in prices of tea.

Similarly, in Sri Lanka, the tea industry, which is the country's fourth-largest foreign exchange earner, is expected to face a shortfall in production due to the lack of rainfall. The country's Tea Board has already warned of a possible drop in production and exports, leading to a rise in tea prices.

Tea experts predict that the situation is unlikely to improve anytime soon, and the ongoing dry spell could continue to impact tea production in the coming months. The dry spell has not only affected the growth of tea bushes but has also led to a rise in pest attacks, further impacting the quality of tea leaves.

The tea industry is hoping for some relief in the form of timely and adequate rainfall, which is crucial for the growth and yield of tea bushes. However, if the situation continues to persist, it is likely to cause a severe impact on the tea industry, leading to an increase in the prices of tea globally.

In conclusion, the ongoing dry spell is likely to have a major impact on tea production and prices worldwide. The situation calls for prompt measures to be taken to address the water crisis in tea-growing areas, which is crucial for the sustenance of the tea industry and the millions of people who depend on it for their livelihoods.