Onam demand boosted prices of good liquoring tea at Kochi auctions this week, thanks to increased purchases made by Supplyco to meet the requirement for the festival season.

The increased procurement by Supplyco follows the decision of the Kerala government to distribute food kits to below poverty line (BPL) families during the Onam festival period through the public distribution system, traders said.  

Auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis said that in sale 30, prices of good liquoring teas increased by ₹1 to ₹2, and sometimes more, and the government entity’s purchase has boosted the sales percentage to 90 out of the offered quantity of 6,45,358 kg. However, the increase in price was less for the low, medium and plainer teas, witnessing some withdrawals. There was some export enquiry at the bottom of the market.

Orthodox tea steady

The market for orthodox dust was sold around last levels with exporter and upcountry buyers absorbing a small quantity. The offered quantity was 4,500 kg, witnessing 100 per cent sales. 

The orthodox leaf market remained steady, with whole leaf being firm to dearer, while the rest was irregular and lower. The offered quantity was 2,06,309 kg with a sales percentage of 85. Exporters to Middle East and CIS countries were active, while upcountry buyers lent fair support.

CTC leaf demand was fair with a sales percentage of 68 per cent out of the offered quantity of 42,500 kg. Good brokens was lower, while medium and plainer brokens and Fannings were dearer.

Published on July 25, 2025