Tea prices at Kochi auctions have seen a spike due to increased export demand, with orthodox tea prices rising by ₹2 per kg on average. The recent trading session, sale 54, witnessed a high sales percentage of the offered quantity, mainly due to active participation from buyers in the Middle East and CIS countries. Additionally, upcountry exporters contributed to the strong demand for orthodox tea.
The market for whole leaf tea remains firm to dearer, driven by quality and demand. CTC leaf tea also received a good response, with 92 per cent sales out of the offered quantity. A leading tea exporter in South India has indicated that prices are likely to sustain in the near future, given the current demand from overseas markets such as Iran, Iraq, and the Middle East. This trend is expected to continue until the new crop arrives in mid-March.
Demand for CTC dust tea was strong, with good liquoring teas remaining firm to dearer. High-priced teas experienced some resistance but medium teas were firm to dearer in line with quality. Plainer tea prices also appreciated.
The orthodox dust market was strong, with prices remaining firm to dearer and 100 per cent sales out of the offered quantity. Exporters and upcountry buyers absorbed a small quantity of orthodox dust tea.
Overall, the tea market at Kochi auctions seems to be in a positive phase, with strong export demand driving up prices. The trend is expected to continue in the coming weeks until the new crop arrives, providing stability to prices and demand in the market.
