Bangladesh’s tea industry is showing renewed optimism as early rainfall at the start of the 2026 season has improved growing conditions across major tea-producing regions including Chattogram, Sylhet, Panchagarh, and Moulvibazar. The first two months of the year saw an increase of 258,000 kilograms of tea compared to the same period last year. The first auction of the season was held on April 27, where about 95 percent of the tea offered was sold. The Bangladesh Tea Board has set a production target of 104 million kilograms for this season, slightly higher than last year’s 103 million, which fell short by over 8 million kilograms.

Officials and industry leaders attribute the positive outlook to favorable weather and expanding cultivation in northern plains. However, they also warn of challenges including rising production costs, illegal tea trading, and market management issues. The government has fixed maximum auction prices at Tk 245 per kilogram for Sylhet and Chattogram teas and Tk 170 for Panchagarh.

The Tea Board is emphasizing organic fertilizers and integrated pest management to improve quality and sustainability. If favorable weather continues, stakeholders believe Bangladesh could exceed its production target and reduce dependence on imports.