Tea auction of 6.1 MnKgs sees firm interest in premium western lots

This week’s auction comprised of 6.1 M/Kgs. There was fair general demand mostly at firm to easier rates, except for the seasonal teas from the Western slopes which appreciated significantly following quality. 
The overall bearish sentiment amidst the declining rupee would no doubt be concerning.   
Ex-Estate offerings comprised of 0.78 M/Kgs. Quality of teas from the Western slopes showed a further improvement and had on offer a wider selection of teas. It was encouraging to observe the improved activity and the appreciation in prices for the seasonal teas. 
Activity at the lower end of the market was largely limited to the cleaner leaf teas, whilst the poorer teas declined in value. 
High & Mid Grown CTC teas too followed a similar trend with the better teas continuing to sell around last week’s levels, whilst the poorer counterparts lost out in value. Corresponding Low Grown types too were barely maintained and were often easier for the poorer sorts which were adversely impacted due to limited interest from the CIS and Middle East.  
Low Growns totalled approximately 2.77 M/Kgs with the Leafy, Semi-Leafy and Tippy categories witnessing fair demand, whilst the Premium category met with improved demand. Limited activity from shippers to the CIS, Türkiye and Syria, whilst there was improved activity from shippers to Iran.  
In the Leafy and Semi-Leafy catalogues, Select Best BOP1’s together with teas at the bottom were firm, whilst the Best, Below Best and bolder varieties declined. A selection of high-priced OP1’s appreciated, whilst the balance sold at last levels. OP/OPA’s, in general, were lower. Well-made PEK’s were easier, whilst the balance together with the mixed/open varieties sold at last levels. PEK1’s declined.  
In the Tippy catalogue, well-made FBOP’s together with teas at the bottom sold at last levels, whilst the balance together with the bolder varieties declined. Teas at the bottom sold around last levels. Select Best FF1’s were firm. The Best together with the cleaner Below Best were firm to dearer, whilst the balance were irregular following quality. 
In the Premium catalogue, Very Tippy teas sold around last levels and the others in general appreciated, whilst the leafier types were irregular.