Orthodox tea prices experienced a significant recovery at Kochi auctions this week, with average price realisation rising by around ₹13 per kg due to renewed demand from West Asian markets. According to reports from The Hindu BusinessLine, the easing of tensions in West Asia has revived export demand for orthodox teas, with buyers from Russia, Iran, Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries resuming orders following the reopening of shipping routes. The improved crop quality, aided by recent rains in the high ranges, has also contributed to stronger enquiries from overseas markets.
Auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis reported robust demand in Sale No. 26, with whole leaf orthodox teas ruling firm to dearer by ₹5-10 per kg and sometimes more. Of the 3,17,738 kg offered, 98 per cent was sold, registering strong buying interest, particularly from West Asian markets. The CTC leaf segment also witnessed healthy demand, with medium brokens and fannings remaining steady to firm, while plainer varieties traded at higher levels.
As reported by The Hindu BusinessLine, clean, black and well-made orthodox teas sold at firm-to-dearer levels, supported by active buying from West Asia and CIS countries. The CTC dust market recorded strong demand, with 7,68,917 kg offered and 86 per cent sales percentage. Blenders accounted for 68 per cent of the total CTC quantity sold, while good liquoring teas were barely steady and declined by ₹1-2 per kg. However, medium-quality teas witnessed significant withdrawals due to subdued buying interest.
