A policy briefing which presents the findings of a study of 12 certified and non certified South Asian tea estates. The study investigated the role of Fairtrade certification in moves towards decent work for tea plantation workers in South India, the Northeast Indian state of Assam and Sri Lanka. The findings of the study assess that it continues to be a challenge to make a real impact for workers within certified producer organizations. The policy brief then suggests steps towards a worker-driven Fairtrade approach on South Asian tea plantations.