Dropping temperatures in the gardens have affected tea production, leading to reduced offerings in the Coonoor auction.
Global tea auctioneers said the quantity offered in CTC leaf was only 7,75,617 kg, which was 88 per cent of sales, while the figure for dust grade was 2,24,096 kg, which was 89 per cent of sales.
It is reported that severe frost is being observed in the Nilgiris district, with the sharp drop in temperature in the early morning causing damage to the tender tea branches and slowing down the growth of the new flush.
This has resulted in less arrival of green leaves, leading to a decline in overall production. The movement of tea from factories has also reduced. The emerging scenario has affected small growers and factory workers, as the bushes will take time to recover until rains begin and night temperatures rise.
Traders said blenders were not active in Sale Number: 7 and prices remained stable despite one blender being very selective. Higher priced tea and better liquor varieties sometimes sell for Rs 4 to 5 and even more expensive depending on the quality.
The primary whole leaf grade was generally low at ₹5 to ₹6. Tuttis were barely stable and sometimes became expensive by ₹3 to ₹4. Secondaries and fannings were barely stable and sometimes became expensive by ₹1 to ₹2.
In CTC Dust, high priced tea and better liquor varieties were sold dearer by ₹3 to ₹4.
Published on February 16, 2026
