
Sri Lanka Tea Prices Edge Up in July but Lag Behind 2024 Levels
- CNL Reporter
- August 8, 2025
- Business News, News
- Sri Lanka Tea
- 0 Comments
Sri Lanka’s tea industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s exports, continues to face headwinds from weak global demand, currency fluctuations, and rising competition, despite a slight improvement in July prices. The latest data highlights that while short-term gains offer some relief, overall market performance remains below last year’s levels.
According to Forbes & Walker Tea Brokers, the national tea sales average in July 2025 rose to Rs. 1,127.60 ($3.74), up Rs. 24.33 and $0.06 from June’s Rs. 1,103.27 ($3.68). However, this is still Rs. 96.28 and $0.29 lower than July 2024’s Rs. 1,223.88 ($4.03).
Cumulatively, the January–July 2025 average stands at Rs. 1,153.07 ($3.87), a decline of Rs. 105.50 and $0.24 from the same period last year.
Elevation-wise, High Grown teas posted a monthly gain of Rs. 38.52 ($0.12) but saw a sharp yearly drop of Rs. 118.01 ($0.36). Medium Grown teas fell marginally month-on-month but dropped Rs. 88.52 ($0.26) year-on-year. Low Grown teas rose Rs. 19.69 ($0.05) from June, yet remain Rs. 92.76 ($0.27) below last year.
All three key elevations have recorded negative year-to-date variances, underscoring the sector’s ongoing struggle to regain momentum in a competitive and volatile global market.