Tea likely to fetch higher prices in 2019 auctions on output shortfall

According to the Indian Tea Association, production was down by 13 million kg during January-October last year

In face of an expected 50 million kg (mn kg) shortfall of tea, producing companies are looking at a good opening in this year’s auctions.
 
After a three-month hiatus, the first flush (first plucking) of tea starts to hit the auction centres in early March. During the first flush, 120-130 mn kg is produced in north India (the entire country apart from the southern region).
 
According to the Indian Tea Association (ITA), the apex body for north Indian tea, production was down by 13 mn kg during January-October last year; November-December is also expected to register another 12