Widespread export enquiries are continuing to buoy demand for orthodox tea at the Kochi auctions, leading to improved sales and a drop in unsold quantities.

In Sale 17, whole leaf varieties ruled firm to dearer, supported by active buying interest from CIS nations and neighbouring countries. Of the 2,73,934 kg of orthodox leaf offered, around 92 per cent was sold. Overall unsold quantities for both orthodox and CTC teas stood at just 9 per cent, according to Forbes, Ewart & Figgis.

Anil George, president of Tea Trade Association of Cochin, said orthodox teas continue to show resilience, backed by consistent demand, evolving trade channels, and strong market absorption, pointing to a positive outlook. However, plantation conditions remain under strain due to rainfall deficit and rising temperatures, which have impacted crop output. Some relief has come from scattered summer showers in select estates.

MRL compliance

Market dynamics are also shifting, with new direct buyers emerging from the EU bloc, including countries in the Nordic region and Denmark. N Lakshmanan Chettiar of Golden Hills Estates Pvt Ltd, said Kochi has gained credibility as a reliable alternative sourcing hub to Sri Lanka, particularly due to South India’s strong compliance with stringent EU norms on maximum residue levels (MRL).

Meanwhile, the CTC dust market opened ₹5 to ₹7 lower for liquoring teas and the market remained barely steady as the sale progressed. The offered quantity was 7,07,596 kg, registering a sales percentage of 84. Kerala loose tea traders and upcountry buyers were active compared to previous sales.

Orthodox dust market was firm to dearer with a 95 per cent sales out of the offered quantity of 7,800 kg.

Published on April 24, 2026