Tea has great antioxidant properties and it may prevent many diseases insuring good health in human beings. Green tea, which is popular in China and Far East, has been credited to prevent gastric, pancreatic, bladder and ovarian cancers. Green tea may also lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It may destroy bacteria that contribute to the cavities in the teeth, and also help in preventing coronary heart disease and blood clots. The black tea which is more common in Nepal also has many health benefits such as strengthening the immune system and making oral and skeletal health more strong. These health benefits also have played an important role in promoting commercial production of tea in Nepal and China.

In Nepal, 11.7 million kg of tea is produced every year from various tea estates. Out of this, two million kg of tea is the "orthodox tea"- a very valuable tea made in the higher altitudes of Nepal. This tea is exported to India, France, Germany and the USA. Nepal ranks 19th in tea production in the world. China is the top producer of tea in the world boasting an array of tea leaves varieties. Tea production in China has rapidly increased over the past decade: from seven percent of the total domestic beverage volume to twenty five percent in 2012. It is expected that in 2013 the annual production of tea will be worth $14.7 billion with about 230 enterprises. These statistics indicate that the tea industry is enormous and is contributing in enhancing the GDP of both countries.

Because of its health benefits drinking tea is becoming increasingly popular in health conscious people. However, too much tea may also be responsible for some health problems. If drunk in excess, tea may cause gastric ulcers. Tea might contain tannic acid and if drunk too much may result in anemia and iron deficiency. The person who consumes a lot may also develop the kidney and liver diseases. Therefore observing moderation in tea drinking would be a wise practice for both Nepal and China.

Perhaps we can say there is lot more in a cup of tea than that meets the eye. As 21st century is drawing Chinese and Nepali people more closer in everyday life, it can be hoped that tea will continue to warm friendship and nurture relationship between the two countries. It had been a symbol of friendship in the past, and there is every reason to believe that it will remain so in the future as well.

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