KP Tea Traders Demand MRP Removal, Industry Support

PESHAWAR: Tea traders in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have raised alarms over the imposition of a minimum retail price (MRP) on legally imported black tea, urging policy reforms and financial incentives to bolster the tea sector.

The concerns were voiced during a meeting of tea traders and importers at the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), led by President Junaid Altaf and attended by FPCCI Vice President Aman Paracha.

Traders highlighted a range of challenges, including frequent border closures, policy and administrative gaps, distance from seaports, escalating costs due to security threats, natural calamities, and trade restrictions.

Altaf stressed the need for diversification, modernization, quality enhancement, and improved branding and packaging to strengthen the tea sector, which plays a vital role in driving economic growth, business, and employment.

Paracha noted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has suffered significant setbacks from terrorism, floods, and other challenges, hampering business, trade, and exports. He advocated for a special financial relief package and incentives to revitalize industry and commerce in the region.

Addressing the MRP, Paracha explained that it has severely impacted traders, particularly as the price floor is inapplicable to bulk tea imports. He confirmed that the issue has been raised with relevant authorities, with ongoing efforts to review or abolish the MRP.