Re-escalating tensions in West Asia seems to impact Kochi’s tea auction market, with overseas buyers turning cautious in their purchases.The weekly intake of orthodox teas has declined, reflected in the higher percentage of unsold quantities in Sale 22. Traders also reported delays in payments from overseas buyers, prompting some exporters to temporarily pause shipments.Auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis said the orthodox tea market remained irregular and lower by ₹5 to ₹10. While Middle East buyers stayed active, support from CIS countries was only moderate. The quantity offered stood at 2,11,525 kg, with a sales percentage of 82.Sentiment to remain weakAnil George, President of Tea Trade Association of Cochin, said the sentiment for CTC teas is also expected to remain weak, largely depending on quality. Trade continues to be affected by the LPG crisis and reduced operations of hot tea shops in several markets. However, dust tea prices at Kochi are likely to improve towards the end of June as buying interest for the Onam season gradually picks up.The market is expected to stabilise after the second week of June with improved enquiry likely for better liquoring teas. Higher North India second flush prices may also lend support to quality South Indian teas. While crop levels may improve over the next few weeks following recent rains, the sustainability of higher production levels remains uncertain due to erratic weather conditions and extreme heat, he said.The auctioneers said the CTC dust market was lower by ₹1 to ₹2 and all blenders together absorbed 72 per cent of the offered quantity of 6,07,012 kg. The unsold quantity was also on the higher side. Published on May 29, 2026