Orthodox tea prices ruled higher at Rs 188.56 a kg in this week’s auction compared to Rs 180.88 last week. An estimated 85.93 per cent (84.15 per cent) of the offerings were sold. The average price of CTC was lower at Rs 146.01 (Rs 148.17) and the offerings sold were 79.5 per cent (81.47 per cent), according to J Thomas & Company Pvt Ltd., the tea auctioneers.

The total offerings (packages) at three North Indian auction centres at Kolkata, Guwahati and Siliguri were 4,52,524 compared to 4,30,528 in the corresponding Sale number 49 of last year.

The offerings at Kolkata comprised CTC/Dust 1,41,559 (1,63,703), Orthodox 36,138 (36,418) and Darjeeling 5,832 (8,267). The figures for two other centres, mainly handling CTC/Dust, were: Guwahati 1,64,637( 1,16,626) and Siliguri 1,04,358 (1,05,514).

Assam CTC teas maintaining quality sold at firm to dearer rates while the remainder was barely steady and irregularly lower. Better Dooars was barely steady and irregularly lower while the remainder generally eased in value. Orthodox whole leaf grades appreciated in value. Brokens were irregular following quality with selected teas dearer. Fannings met with less enquiry and eased in value.