Guwahati, July 9: The Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC) has recorded a strong start to the fiscal year, posting a 27 per cent year-on-year growth in tea sales during the April–June quarter of 2025. Total volumes rose to 32.21 million kilograms, up from 25.37 million kilograms in the same period last year, reflecting growing demand across multiple tea categories.
According to Dinesh Bihani, Secretary of the Guwahati Tea Auction Buyers Association, the growth was driven by robust performance in all major segments, particularly orthodox teas, which doubled their sales volume this quarter.
CTC teas continued to dominate the auctions in terms of volume, with sales increasing from 16.17 million kilograms in Q1 of 2024 to 20.46 million kilograms this year. Despite the growth, the average price for CTC teas dropped by Rs. 14.68 compared to the same period last year, indicating some price pressure in bulk categories.
Dust teas saw improved performance both in volume and price. Sales rose to 9.82 million kilograms from 8.25 million kilograms a year ago, while the average price increased to Rs. 240.20 per kilogram, up from Rs. 225.30. Orthodox teas registered the most striking growth, with sales jumping from 0.94 million kilograms to 1.92 million kilograms. Prices for orthodox teas also climbed significantly, averaging Rs. 279.63 per kilogram—an increase of Rs. 16.14 over the previous year—buoyed by increased participation from export buyers.
In terms of pricing trends, 22 per cent of CTC leaf and 30 per cent of Dust teas were sold above Rs. 300 per kilogram. Another 38 per cent of CTC leaf and 29 per cent of Dust teas fell within the Rs. 200–299 range, while the remaining 40 per cent in both categories were sold in the Rs. 100–199 bracket.
The increasing share of teas fetching premium prices reflects strong market appetite for quality lots. With promising crop trends and continued buyer interest, GTAC expects auction volumes to rise further in the coming months. Industry stakeholders say the centre remains a vital link in India’s tea trade network, providing a transparent and efficient platform for buyers, sellers, and exporters.
