Orthodox teas in the South Indian auctions are yet to register the marked increase in prices as happened in North India. But, exporters predict better times ahead.

This week, the best South Indian orthodox whole leaf fetched Rs 95-105 a kg while their North Indian counterpart Rs 200-250.

The low-end South Indian fannings got Rs 50-60 while their North Indian equivalent, Rs 85-95. In the North, high-end teas have been fetching Rs 20 a kg more than this time last year. High-priced tippy teas fetching around €20 a kg attracted more enquiries.

“We are supporting fresh teas as there is some 35 million kg shortfall in the global bowl. We look forward to increased purchases in South Indian auctions ,” an exporter told Business Line .