📉 National Tea Averages Extend Decline for Third Consecutive Month

Sri Lanka’s tea industry faced continued pricing pressure in March 2026, marking a steady downward trend since the peak in December 2025. Based on Forbes & Walker Research, all elevations recorded negative variances in US$ terms. • Overall Market Performance The national sales average fell to Rs. 1,144.23 (US$ 3.63) in March, a month-on-month drop of Rs. 7.88. This represents a cumulative decline of Rs. 57.35 from December 2025. On a YoY basis, prices are down by Rs. 39.53 (US$ 0.36) compared to March 2025. • Sector Breakdowns (March 2026) Low Grown: Recorded the steepest monthly decline, dropping by Rs. 13.95 to Rs. 1,181.30. Prices are down Rs. 55.02 YoY. High Grown: Declined by Rs. 8.31 month-on-month to Rs. 1,150.71. While slightly up in Rupee terms YoY (+Rs. 5.72), it fell by US$ 0.21 in dollar value. Medium Grown: The only segment to see a marginal Rupee gain of Rs. 5.72 to Rs. 987.09, though it still suffered a YoY collapse of Rs. 69.21. • Q1 2026 Cumulative Data The national average for Jan–Mar 2026 reached Rs. 1,153.25 (US$ 3.70), reflecting a decline of Rs. 26.07 (US$ 0.28) over the same period in 2025. The data highlights a challenging quarter for tea exports as global price valuations soften.