Demand from international buyers, particularly for lower-grade orthodox leaf varieties, has driven up tea prices in the Kochi auctions. According to recent reports, the average price realization increased by ₹4 in auction sale 41, largely due to heightened purchases from Iraqi buyers, which has been pivotal in sustaining the market.
Traders noted that the availability of quality teas in the auction platform contributed significantly to the increased interest from overseas buyers. This trend was underscored by a robust sales figure, with 93 percent of the offered quantity, amounting to 223,094 kg, sold.
Auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis reported active participation from exporters to Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Middle Eastern countries, alongside some inquiries from domestic markets. The market for whole leaf teas displayed irregular trends, experiencing a decline, while lower-end brokens saw a firm to increased demand, particularly those that appreciated in value.
In the CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) leaf category, good brokens experienced price increases; meanwhile, medium brokens and fannings remained steady or rose slightly. The total quantity offered in this segment was 36,500 kg.
For CTC dust, there was a robust demand for liquoring teas, with prices for select varieties climbing to ₹172. The offered quantity stood at 516,196 kg, achieving a sales percentage of 92. Notably, all blenders accounted for 63 percent of the total CTC quantity sold.
In the orthodox dust category, the market for clean black primary grades showed increases in price, with an offered quantity of 4,500 kg. Upcountry buyers remained active in this segment.
Published on October 10, 2025.
