Continuing war-related uncertainty in West Asia dented export demand for orthodox teas at the Kochi tea auctions, resulting in a decline of ₹6 per kg for this particular variety.

According to auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis, the market faced buyer resistance in Sale No. 24 following renewed geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran. Exporters catering to West Asian and CIS markets offered only limited support.

Traders said that demand for orthodox teas in Gulf countries remains fundamentally strong, but uncertainty surrounding shipping routes and possible delays has prompted overseas buyers to postpone their purchases. Importers are wary of potential demurrage costs if consignments are held up at other ports on the transit.

West Asia buyers active

Anil George, president of the Tea Trade Association of Cochin, said demand in the orthodox leaf segment remained good but selective. Buyers from West Asia stayed fairly active, while CIS countries also extended support.

The auction recorded an offering of 2,55,383 kg of orthodox leaf teas, with 85 per cent of the quantity sold. Average price realisation dropped to ₹178.60 per kg from ₹184.78 last week.

However, the CTC dust market witnessed better demand with select good-liquoring varieties were firm and sold at higher levels, gaining ₹1-3 per kg depending on quality. The offered quantity was 7,15,105 kg, of which 88 per cent was sold, with market witnessing significant withdrawals.

Blenders accounted for 61 per cent of the total CTC quantity sold. There was also improved buying interest from Kerala loose tea traders and upcountry buyers, lending additional support to the market.

Published on June 12, 2026