Tea crop levels increase, but prices lower than in 2020

By Steve A. Morrell

Although tea crop levels increased at end July 2021, prices in the same period of 2020 were comparatively at higher levels, latest tea reported indicated.

Brokers’ tea market reports from Asia Siyaka, Tea Brokers, John Keels PLC, Forbes & Walker Tea Brokers, weekly tea reports said production at end July 2021 recorded positive increases of 20 percent for the comparative period, 2021 production at 187.8 million kgs, exceeded 2020 production of the same period. Production at end July last year was 156.9 million kgs.

Plantation sources who declined identification informed ‘The Island’ that these positive results were attributed to salient weather conditions at all elevations. The Western slopes, Mid growns, and low elevation wet zone areas, all recorded positive increases in production. They conceded that agricultural practices too formed significant positives contributing to these positive results.

It is on record that the small holder sector produced some 75 percent tea to enhance production. However, although such positive results were recorded, and their earnings literally doubled, they have been cautioned that leaf standards should also be maintained.

Quoting the Asia Siyaka Tea report, they said low growns are at a healthy112.6 million kgs about 22 percent above 2020 results. 2020 results were 92.3 million kgs. Similarly all elevations recorded plus variances.

John Keels Plc Tea report said Colombo was supported last week by Turkey ,Iran,, Russia, CIS countries, Libya, Iraq, and others. Prices in Colombo were at competitive levels including 27.4 thousand kilos green tea increasing green tea production to 1.3 million kilos. Additionally CTC production as well showed increases recording prices above 2020 levels.

Comparatively producing countries quoted by John Keels Plc, reported positive results except Kenya. Sri Lanka, North and South India, \Bangladesh, Malawi were countries with positive results in production. Reasons for drop in production in Kenya were not known,

Prices recorded last week were by and large influenced by the Uva quality season, recording prices from Rs. 1850, to the flowery grades selling at Rs. 2150. Per kilo. Uva selling marks recognized for their outstanding quality maintained their reputation contributing to positive market results.