Orthodox tea exports through Kochi auctions continue to be hit as the intensifying West Asia crisis led to a sharp decline of ₹9 per kg in average price realisation.Traders said export demand has slowed considerably as rising freight costs and market uncertainty have prompted shippers to scale down operations amid congestion at various ports. Exporters have consequently reduced purchases as they are unable to commit shipments against orders already placed.However, the quality of the crop has improved significantly following good rainfall in the high ranges, resulting in higher quantities being offered at the auctions. Traders also indicated the possibility of increased buying interest from North Indian buyers at South Indian auctions, as floods have affected several tea-growing regions in North India. CTC tea prices continue to remain firm across South India, supported by strong domestic demand, traders said.CIS buyers lend supportIn sale 31, the quantity offered in orthodox leaf was 2,49,106 kg, with a sales percentage of 88. The prices were down by ₹9 at ₹172. The market for whole leaf and brokens was irregular and lower.The auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis said exporters to CIS countries lent fair support, while West Asia was subdued.Anil George Joseph, President of Tea Trade Association of Cochin, said the market was generally ruling irregular around last levels for better teas, while medium and plainer varieties eased following quality. Select best whole leaf and broken grades in orthodox sold around last levels and were occasionally dearer following quality.In CTC dust, good liquoring teas were steady to firm and became dearer by ₹1-2 a kg. The offered quantity was 6,78,344 kg and all blenders together absorbed 68 per cent of the total CTC quantity sold.Published on July 31, 2026