This week at Sale No. 16 at Kolkata tea auction, the average prices of both orthodox and CTC varieties were much higher than those in last week’s Sale No. 15. According to J Thomas & Company Pvt Ltd., the tea auctioneers, the average price of orthodox was Rs 182.52 (Rs 127.21) a kg and of CTC Rs 154.56 (Rs 139.27). An estimated 64.92 per cent ( 88.81 per cent) of the orthodox and 68.85 per cent (66.60 per cent) of the CTC offerings were sold. This week, the total offerings (packages) at the three North Indian auction centres at Kolkata, Guwahati and Siliguri were 1,01,581 compared to 78,794 in the corresponding sale in 2012. Of this, Kolkata comprised CTC/dust 22,568 (23,802), orthodox 1,732 (4,778) and Darjeeling 1,419 (97). The corresponding figures for two other centres, handling mainly CTC/dust, were: Guwahati 16,668 (16,105) and Siliguri 59,194 (34,012). Assam CTCs were irregularly easier, particularly medium sorts. Selected best Dooars sold well while the remainder was irregularly lower. Packeteers were quiet. Western India operated actively. There were good enquiries from other internal and local sections. Well-made, stylish orthodox whole leaf grades were irregular around last levels. Bolder whole leaf grades were firm to dearer. Brokens and fannings eased in value. Continental exporters operated on the few tippy teas on offer. The CIS and West Asian shippers operated. Fair interest of local dealers was witnessed. Darjeeling whole leaf grades with seasonal quality witnessed traditional enquiry from merchant exporters and sold well. Blenders did not operate. Brokens and fannings were keenly competed for by local dealers. Source: thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/agri-biz/tea-prices-gather-steam-in-n-india-auctions/article4640273.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home