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Lower offerings lift orthodox tea leaf prices in Kochi auctions
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Monday, 02 February, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, Mumbai
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Orthodox tea leaf prices at the Kochi auctions moved higher this week, supported by lower offerings and steady demand from domestic and export buyers, traders said. Total arrivals declined marginally, creating a supply-side push that helped improve realisations across select categories.
Auctioneers said that leaf quality was generally good, with well-made orthodox whole leaf and brokens attracting better bids. Exporters, particularly those catering to West Asian and CIS markets, were active, while domestic packeteers lent additional support at higher price levels. As a result, several invoices registered firm to dearer trends compared to the previous sale.
CTC leaf, however, witnessed a mixed trend, with prices largely steady to marginally easier in certain grades due to adequate availability and selective buying. Buyers remained cautious, preferring quality lots, while average and plain teas faced resistance at higher prices.
Market participants attributed the lower arrivals to seasonal factors and intermittent weather conditions affecting plucking in key growing regions. While production is expected to improve in the coming weeks, traders cautioned that any prolonged weather disruptions could continue to impact supply dynamics in the short term.
Export sentiment remained stable, aided by consistent overseas enquiries, though currency fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainties continue to weigh on buying decisions. Domestic demand, on the other hand, showed resilience, particularly for premium orthodox teas used in blends.
Industry sources said that prices are likely to remain firm in the near term if offerings continue to stay below normal levels. However, the sustainability of the uptrend will depend on the pace of fresh leaf arrivals and buying interest from key export destinations.
The Kochi auction centre continues to play a crucial role in the orthodox tea trade, with market participants closely tracking supply-demand movements ahead of the peak production season.
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