<h1>Indian Tea Exports Drop Due to Weather and Competition; Incentives Introduced to Boost Value-Added Teas.</h1> The volume of Indian tea exports in 2014-15 decreased compared to 2013-14 due to reduced production of Assam Orthodox tea from delayed rains, increased Kenyan supplies, and reduced demand in key markets like the USA, Iran, and Russia. The Merchandise Exports from India Scheme aims to boost exports of value-added teas. Under the Foreign Trade Policy (2015-2020), packaged teas receive a 5% reward of FOB value, while bulk teas get 3%. The Indian Tea Association has requested restoring the bulk tea reward rate to 5%. The Tea Board plans to enhance exports through value addition, branding, and promotion.