First flush Darjeeling teas threatened by lack of rainfall
India's tea industry is bracing itself for lower output and revenues following an extended dry spell in Darjeeling, Dooars and parts of Assam that may affect first flush tea production. First flush teas, particularly from the region of Darjeeling, typically fetch the highest prices from overseas buyers. This year, the region hasn't seen substantial rainfall since October 2013, whereas parts of Assam recorded only modest rainfall in March. If the weather does not markedly improve in the days ahead, output and quality of leaves may be severely affected. Initial reports suggest local production may already be down 20-30% in March. The number of tea auctions has therefore been reduced from two to one per week in Calcutta.