Fair trade estates produce a higher quality tea that promises only natural ingredients without the use of any artificial additives to the soil. While these farming practices are the foundations of tea, the fundamentals of free trade estates lie in providing a healthy community for those who labor over the delicate plants. Each estate is committed to providing compensatory wages, clean living conditions, and wellness services. In addition, none will employ child laborers, regardless if they are under parental supervision. While there is an extra cost of providing a fair trade environment, Sencha Naturals and our partners support this practice. Fair Trade not only supports these indigenous groups by providing an equitable and sustainable model for international trade, but also provides superior quality teas by avoiding typical cost-cutting practices.

 

 

Da Zhang Shan (Big Barrier Mountains) Plantation

Situated in the northern part of the Jiangxi Province is a mountainous region called ‘Da Zhang Shan’ (Big Barrier Mountains). Untouched by any industrialization, this area is home to over 200 small villages, with 50 of them being certified organic (according to European standards). The tea is cultivated in fields up to 2000 meters high, and is known for its excellent quality. In the year 2002, these landowners united to form the ‘Da Zhang Shan Organic Farmers Association’ and have been the first tea estates in China to receive organic certification.

 

Korakundah Plantation

Located in the southern part of India, within the region of Nilgiri, lies the plantation of Korakundah. Surrounded by lush rolling green hills, the company grows tea at a higher altitude, enhancing the flavors of the tea. They practice vermiculture, nature's own way of soil enrichment, rather than infesting the soil with artificials. Earthworms aerate the soil; promoting drainage and producing more nutritive materials for growing plants.

 

Makaibari Plantation

Nestled in the Darjeeling region, the Makaibari is the oldest estate located in this district, cultivated by a fourth generation tea purveyor. The plantation reflects a slower lifestyle that places emphasis on creating a democratic working community. The tea is only produced in small quantities, ensuring a richer harvest. The plantation has taken great care to only clear out 30% of its forest land, allowing the teas to be grown well under the forest's dense cover.

 

For more information on Fair Trade, please visit www.transfairusa.org