Overview

• Exporters resumed shipments to Iran after the ceasefire and auction prices in Kolkata and Guwahati have climbed back toward preconflict levels.
• Traders reported a 10% drop in premium Assam orthodox tea sales during the 12-day war but have seen volumes recover as Iranian buyers reengage.
• Roughly 30% of Assam’s 85 million kilogram orthodox crop was destined for Iran, where exports involve government-managed contracts and delayed payments.
• Industry leaders warn that lingering geopolitical risks and erratic rainfall as June temperatures top 38 °C threaten output and margins.
• Tea producers are expanding dust tea exports and enforcing strict EU residue compliance to diversify channels and stabilize revenues.