CTC Tea fetches record prices at GTAC

Guwahati: The Guwahati Tea Auction Center (GTAC) on Wednesday set a new record in tea prices as two lines of Hookhomal CTC teas fetched a record price of Rs 723, a senior official said.

These lots were sold by J.Thomas & Co. and bought by M/s Arihant Tea Co. & Shree Jagdamba Tea Syndicate. "The faith in the auction system seems well-placed, given these remarkable prices", Dinesh Bihani, the secretary of the Guwahati Tea Auction Buyers' Association said. "It's also noteworthy that even teas from small tea growers are commanding high prices", he added.

Another record was made when 100% quality tea grown by small tea growers was sold at Rs 436, marking the highest price for a Bought Leaf Tea Garden. "These teas were made by Rajajuli-bought leaf tea factory in the name of Dharmajuli Teas sold by Paramount Tea Marketing Pvt. Ltd and purchased by M/s Baruah Innovation of Guwahati for their packets", Bihani informed.

According to Bihani, the transparent nature of the auction system ensures that such high prices are achievable, which might not be the case in private sales. He further noted that this could lead to a positive cycle where better prices at auction "encourage small growers to focus on producing quality green leaves, further enhancing the overall quality and reputation of teas from the region."

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