Ramadan fasting is creating mixed market dynamics in India's tea sector, with Kochi auctions showing softened demand for CTC dust grades. Unsold quantities of CTC dust surged approximately 28 percent in Sale 9 as hotels and tea shops in Muslim-dominated northern Kerala remained closed during daytime fasting hours, reducing consumption. However, premium quality teas experienced strong demand for evening Iftars, with good liquoring varieties commanding steady prices despite slight corrections of one to two rupees per kilogram. The orthodox tea market demonstrated resilience with 96 percent sales conversion and consistent export enquiry from Middle Eastern and CIS buyers. Domestic purchasing remained selective across grades.
