Episode 230 | Week 52 | Ending December 31, 2025

Tea markets closed the final trading days of 2025 on a steady-to-firm note, with thin holiday volumes masking structurally supportive fundamentals. Across origins, disciplined seller offerings, year-end inventory positioning, and persistently elevated input costs reinforced price floors. Buyers remained selective by grade and origin, but resistance to sharp declines was evident, particularly for cleaner, well-made teas aligned with established blending programs.

Colombo closed the year firmly, with limited year-end offerings of bright high-grown teas continuing to attract interest from Middle Eastern packers covering January shipment requirements.

South India CTC markets held steady through the year-end period as domestic blenders focused on near-term coverage and deferred discretionary buying until early Q1.

Mombasa remained stable, with BP1 and PF grades clearing within narrow bands as reduced catalogues and cautious buyer participation limited volatility.

Indonesia traded steadily, with most export volumes moving via direct sales contracts rather than open auction channels. | Now the outlook:

Market tone exits 2025 on a firmer footing than it entered the year. Early Q1 restocking interest is expected to emerge gradually as buyers reassess inventory positions, though sensitivity to price and quality dispersion is likely to remain pronounced. Absent a material demand shock, downside risk appears limited by cost structures and disciplined supply management.| This week’s Tea Price Report is sponsored by the East Africa Tea Trade Association (EATTA), owners of the Mombasa Tea Auction since 1956. | Podlink signup: https://pod.link/1549975153

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