The Hindu Business Line : Prices rise at Coimbatore tea sales

Tea offerings totalled 4.5 lakh kg comprising 2.04 lakh kg of leaf grades and the balance dust. Market sources said the demand for orthodox tea — both leaf and dust — was generally good, with exporters more active in these counters.

CIS exporters and major blenders operated on orthodox leaf grades, while the dust witnessed enquiries from exporters and few internal buyers as well. Prices increased by an average of Rs 2 per kg. There was improved demand for the CTC leaf. The market was dearer by Rs 2-3 a kg, especially for those suited for exports.

CTC demand strong

Select invoices of Pakistan varieties advanced further, while internal buyers operated selectively on brighter liquoring teas. The demand for CTC dust was strong from all sections of the trade.

Exporters and major blenders offered better support on medium and plain varieties. Prices went up by Rs 2-3 per kg and at times even more. Pakistan exporters operated on clean, black bolder dust grades. The orthodox high grown quoted between Rs 65-75 per kg; quality CTC dust between Rs 60-66/kg, while the medium CTC dust hovered around Rs 50-60 per kg Market sources said the demand was strong as the offerings were being fully taken at Coonoor and Coimbatore auction centres in the past two weeks.