Steep production drop in India's prime tea region
Tea production in India's northern region has dropped 16 percent in June after pest attacks damaged crops. The region, which accounts for more than two-thirds of total output, declined to 76.8 million kilograms from 91.9 million kilograms a year ago. The Assam region has experienced the biggest decline for its second flush teas, predicted to be close to 40%. The second flush pickings are typically the best quality leaves that fetch a premium from buyers overseas. On the bright side, India's total output in January to June grew 20%, totaling 339 million kilograms, compared with 333.9 million kilograms a year ago. Exports climbed to 83.9 million kilograms in the same period.