Overseas demand has lifted orthodox tea prices at Kochi auctions, with average realisation rising by ₹4 per kg.

Traders said a gradual return of overseas buyers, albeit on a limited scale, has supported the price trend, signalling a possible easing of tensions in the Gulf region. Fresh orders are largely coming from key markets such as the UAE and Russia, and are expected to continue in the coming weeks.

On the upward movement, N Lakshmanan Chettiar, Director of Golden Hills Estates Pvt Ltd, Coonoor, said that the orthodox tea segment is primarily concentrated in Sri Lanka and South India. Supply disruptions in Sri Lanka, triggered by the Iran conflict, have affected production, with tea estates reportedly operating only four days a week due to power shortages. Fertilizer scarcity has added to the challenges.

In contrast, India is better placed among competing tea-producing countries to ensure steady supplies, he added.

The auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis said the market for whole leaf and brokens was firm to dearer in Sale 16 with a sales percentage of 93 out of the offered quantity of 1,56,569 kg. The average price realised was ₹205 compared to ₹201 in the previous week. Exporters were active to CIS and neighbouring countries.

CTC leaf market was also good with a sales percentage of 87 out of the offered quantity of 25,500 kg. Export enquiry was noticed at the bottom of the market.

Anil George, president of Tea Trade Association of Cochin, said the auctions witnessed fair demand, though at reduced price levels across most categories. Popular and good liquoring teas showed irregular trends and declined, while medium varieties eased further. Plainer sorts remained barely steady to easier, reflecting subdued buying interest.

However, in CTC dust, good liquoring teas were lower by ₹7 to ₹8 and a lot of withdrawals were noticed due to low bids or lack of bids. Medium teas were also lower by ₹4 to ₹5. The offered quantity was 5,83,974 kg with an average price realisation of ₹159 compared to ₹160 in the previous week.

Published on April 17, 2026