Support from exporters has led to a rise in prices for certain orthodox leaf grades at the Coonoor Tea auctions. However, prices for other grades remained stable during Sale 16, reflecting subdued demand from blenders. Traders noted that the auction platform is experiencing reduced offerings, largely due to the adverse effects of rising temperatures on tea production.
Global Tea Auctioneers reported a sales percentage of 84% for leaf grades from an offered quantity of 1,408,201 kg, while dust grades achieved 89% sales from an offered quantity of 474,137 kg.
In the CTC leaf category, high-priced teas and superior liquoring varieties saw minimal fluctuations, with prices increasing by ₹4 to ₹5, and in some cases significantly more depending on quality. Conversely, some lots sold for ₹3 to ₹4 less. Better medium varieties experienced a slight price increase of ₹1 to ₹2.
For orthodox leaf, primary whole leaf grades were largely stable, with occasional increases of ₹2 to ₹3, although some lots experienced decreases of ₹2 to ₹3 as well. Brokens, on the other hand, saw a drop in price by ₹1 to ₹2.
In CTC dust, high-priced teas and better liquoring varieties experienced a decline of ₹4 to ₹5, while better medium types had steady demand, selling for ₹1 to ₹2 more. Medium sorts maintained price stability around previous levels, whereas plainer varieties saw reductions of ₹2 to ₹3, along with some withdrawals.
The primary grades of orthodox dust were mostly stable, occasionally rising by ₹2 to ₹3, while secondary and finer dusts retained similar prices to previous auctions.
The article was published on April 20, 2026.
