Downtrend was more marked in stalky and small brokens of Assam and Dooars CTCs.

Assam brokens eased by Rs 2-3 a kg and sold at Rs 78-80 a kg for good variety and Rs 60-70 for medium variety. Assam fannings showed similar trend. Good variety sold at Rs 78-65 per kg against Rs 78-87 while medium fannings sold at Rs 60-80 compared to Rs 61-70 per kg. Brokens and fannings in the Dooars category also declined and prices fell by Rs 3-4 a kg at Rs 54-67.

Hind Lever and Gujarat-Maharashtra buyers lifted a major share of teas. Other packateers and domestic traders consumed selective lines. Some export interests were witnessed for fannings, with CIS buyers being subdued.

Darjeeling teas amounting 6,548 packages saw less demand and prices of all levels eased.

Medium and plainer whole leaf prices continued to rule firm while remaining categories declined in prices. Good and medium whole leaf quoted at Rs 140-250 a kg but remaining slid to Rs 80-105 a kg. The medium brokens prices stood firm at Rs 80-100 per kg. Fannings in general sold at Rs 90-100 per kg showing a firm trend. Hind Lever was the mainstay at the market with continental and UK buyers operating for very selected lines. The traditional locals extended limited buying support.

There was good general demand for improved quantity Orthodox teas which accounted for 25,805 as against about 1,800 chests in the past sale. Good quality tippy whole leaf teas sold well at steadier levels at Rs 125-160 a kg. Prices of the remaining whole leaf and brokens and fannings eased on quality consideration. Medium whole leaf was selling at Rs 85-105 a kg while all brokens quoted at Rs 65-125 a kg. Fannings continued to be weak at Rs 45-60 a kg.