Orthodox tea demand remains resilient at Kochi auctions despite agricultural challenges. Strong export enquiries from CIS nations and neighboring countries drove sales, with 92 percent of whole leaf varieties sold in Sale 17. New buyers from EU nations, including Nordic countries and Denmark, are emerging as Kochi gains credibility as a reliable sourcing alternative to Sri Lanka. South India's compliance with stringent EU maximum residue level norms strengthens its competitive position. However, plantation conditions face pressure from rainfall deficits and rising temperatures, impacting crop output. Overall unsold quantities for both orthodox and CTC teas reached just 9 percent, indicating positive market absorption and a strong outlook for the sector.
