CM Karki admits slack marketing of tea

DAMAK, DECEMBER 1: Chief Minister of Koshi Province, Hikmat Kumar Karki, has acknowledged that despite meeting expectations in tea production, the market remains sluggish.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 28th annual general meeting of Mangmalung Tea Estate Ltd. yesterday, CM Karki highlighted challenges faced by some tea industries due to insufficient international marketing efforts. He emphasized the high quality of Nepali tea, urging industries to adopt aggressive marketing strategies to expand their reach globally.

The Chief Minister also underscored Nepal's 175-year history of tea cultivation, stating that expanding marketing efforts is imperative. He noted that Koshi Province accounts for nearly 90% of the country’s tea production, making it a key player in the industry.

Karki called on tea producers to focus on establishing strong brands while exploring new markets. He also announced that an international-level tea conference would be held in Ilam this coming April, aiming to promote Nepal's tea industry on a global platform.

Tea remains one of Nepal’s major cash crops, playing a significant role in the nation's agricultural economy.