Plantation Stocks - Attractive?

03 plantation company uploaded there 31.03.2014 financial statement

MADU,BALA and KVAL

madu running losses in the quater

cse1981 wrote:03 plantation company uploaded there 31.03.2014 financial statement

MADU,BALA and KVAL

madu running losses in the quater

Can we expect better results from plantation companies with their higher labour cost ?

I found some very interesting links on tea. We have to wait and see how tea prices are going to go in the second half of this year and coming years. All the best!

http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/dont-see-impact-due-to-china-vietnam-issue-mcleod-russel_1082605.html

But Kamal Baheti, CFO, Mcleod Russel says Vietnam contributes just about 5 percent to its revenues and 6 percent to total production. The company doesn't export anything to China either. He feels the whole China-Vietnam issue is unlikely to have any impact.

The recent skirmishes in the South China Sea between China and Vietnam may be a cause of concern for companies like Mcleod Russel India that have exposure to Vietnam. The tea major in March announced the acquisition of a tea processing factory in Vietnam for over Rs 5 crore. But Kamal Baheti, CFO, Mcleod Russel says Vietnam contributes just about 5 percent to its revenues and 6 percent to total production. The company doesn't export anything to China either. He feels the whole China-Vietnam issue is unlikely to have any impact.

Also Read: Tea prices may see 5-10% hike in 2014: McLeod Russel He is generally expecting a 10-15 percent increase which means around Rs 15-20 increase per kilogram of tea during the year as a whole.

Below is the verbatim transcript of Kamal Baheti's interview with CNBC-TV18's Sumaira Abidi and Reema Tendulkar Reema: You all have exposure to Vietnam. In fact one of your recent acquisitions was in Vietnam. We have heard about a lot of skirmishes on disputed sea waters with China. Has that impacted Vietnamese operations or will it impact going ahead?

A: Our total exposure in Vietnam is around 7 million kilograms which is only 6 percent of the total production. On revenue side it is only 5 percent. We as a company don’t export anything to China or otherwise. So, I don’t see any impact because of the disputes on the business at all. First it is not a big part of our business. Number two, we don’t see any problem. Our export happens to all the other countries other than China. So, I believe there is going to be no impact.

Sumaira: What about tea prices, what is the likely trend going forward? Are they expected to remain firm?

A: As we started the season, April had been a little dry. As has been reported earlier also, we lost around 30 percent of the field crop but the rain had come in the last 5-7 days. The opening prices had been 10-15 percent higher as compared to last year. It looks like till June-July we will continue to have this kind of a trend on prices, rest will depend upon how the total overall crop actually comes up during peak production months which is July to October. Hopefully the process will remain strong and also hope that there will be some recovery of the crop in April.

Reema: Could you give us some numbers on how much there could be a price increase and what the production volumes could look like? A: Production is very difficult to really predict particularly because we don’t know how the monsoon is going to really pan out. If we go by the previous trends even in the year of El-Nino, we had not seen much drop in crop. Prices have remained very strong. We are generally expecting a 10-15 percent increase which means around Rs 15-20 increase per kilogram of tea during the year for the full year as a whole. We don’t expect much crop drop or increase or may be it is too early to really predict on the crop. However the prices continue to remain very strong particularly because of the strong consumption growth and low inventories.

Mcleod stock price On May 09, 2014, Mcleod Russel (India) closed at Rs 276.80, up Rs 2.80, or 1.02 percent. The 52-week high of the share was Rs 330.00 and the 52-week low was Rs 240.35. The company's trailing 12-month (TTM) EPS was at Rs 23.14 per share as per the quarter ended December 2013. The stock's price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio was 11.96. The latest book value of the company is Rs 164.06 per share. At current value, the price-to-book value of the company is 1.69.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/markets/branded-tea-market-to-double-in-5-years-113021000762_1.html

Branded tea market to double in 5 years
Rapid change in consumer behaviour is likely to support branded tea market more than its unbranded segment.
Dilip Kumar Jha | Mumbai
February 10, 2013 Last Updated at 16:30 IST



Rapid change in consumer behaviour is likely to supportbranded tea market more than its unbranded segment. Consequently, the branded tea market is expected to double in the next five years on consumers’ preferences over branded packet of tea over the open weight dominated unbranded products.

With 20% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR), the branded tea market is contributes nearly 55% of the market size with around 980 million kgs of India’s overall output. A recent, Assocham study forecast India’s tea market to touch Rs 33,000 crore by 2015 from the current level of Rs 19,500 (in 2011).

“The total branded tea segment in India is currently valued at Rs 6000 crore and is expected to double in the next 5 years. The domestic coffee consumption too has been continuously growing at annual average rate of 6% and is largely on account of a thriving independent upscale café culture,” Priti Kapadia, Director, Sentinel Exhibitions Asia the organizer of World Tea & Coffee Expo (WTCE) scheduled to be held between February 15 and 17, 2013 in Mumbai.

Domestic coffee outlets which have a lot of appeal for the new generation, are set to double within next three years fuelled by the foray of global players such Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts in India. WTCE is India’s only trade show dedicated to the hot beverage sector.

Companies in the last decade have positioned tea and coffee as recreational products, which have proved beneficial in attracting younger population. Furthermore, the focus on high-protein, low-sugar diets is stimulating demand for green tea, ground coffee and artificial sweeteners, which have shown strong signs of promise over the past three years, Priti added.

Meanwhile, the Assocham study further said that with nearly six lakh hectares area under tea cultivation, the domestic tea industry is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 15%. India is world’s largest consumer, second largest producer and fourth largest exporter of tea after China and accounts for nearly 30% of global output and nearly 25% of tea produced worldwide is consumed in India, said the study.

With the display of new technologies at the WTCE, Indian companies will be able to fulfill their need of investing in modernization and improving quality so as to consolidate gains and improve their global competitiveness, Priti added.

In spite of the deteriorating global economic climate in the last few years, the hot beverage sector has remained resilient as improvements in transportation and the extension of the shelf life of products backed by continued product innovation and aggressive marketing initiatives is contributing to the growth of this industry. Some segments like premium and organic coffee and green/herbal tea have created an entirely new market.” Adds Kapadia, “Rising consumer awareness about the health hazards of carbonated drinks is leading to a shift towards tea and coffee. Another major driver is surge in the health conscious population who prefer antioxidant property of tea or the instant energy of coffee.”

The top two tea producing nations – China and India, collectively produce about 60% of total global tea output. India is the second-largest tea producer and consumer after China and fourth largest tea exporter after Kenya, China, and Sri Lanka. The key coffee producing and exporting nations are Brazil, Vietnam, Columbia, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and India, among others. Brazil is the world’s largest producer, exporter and consumer of coffee

Nearly 35 lakh workers are employed in over 1,500 tea estates across India and about 65% of these are employed indirectly.

Historically regarded as a hot beverage, the penetration of tea in the non-alcoholic cold beverage segment is another driving force for this industry owing to the rising affinity towards ice-tea which currently accounts for over five% of entire non-alcoholic beverage market in India.

There is not much product differentiation at rural and urban levels and thus key industry players are coming out with value added products but with rapidly changing market scenario and technological advancement in agri-business, there is tremendous scope and potential for growth and development of domestic tea industry.

Internationally, the market for branded tea and coffee in terms of revenue is expected to reach $125 billion by 2017 as against $69 billion in 2011 (estimated) signaling an annual growth of 10.9 % between 2012 and 2017.

http://upstart.bizjournals.com/entrepreneurs/hot-shots/2014/03/20/can-oprah-and-starbucks-make-tea-hot.html?page=all

March 20, 2014, 10:38am EDT

Can Oprah and Starbucks make tea a hot commodity?

It is correct that TEA industry is going to have a good time in future with up trend in the prices .
As far as Sri Lanka is concern , we have to do lot to regain our lost positions and  win over our rivalries . Contribution of TEA industrialists as well as politicians are a must in this respect .

TEA INDUSTRY is required to do

1.Increase the efficiency of tea industry particularly  increase the labour output and enhance the productivity of the yield in turn which would help to reduce the COP

2. Production of the quality TEA for the export market to keep its reputation of Ceylon TEA

3. Contribute to the worldwide campaigns  to enhance goodwill of our tea .


4. Increase the research and development to find ways to increase the efficiency of their output and enhance the quality of products .

POLITICIANS

1. Avoid unnecessary political  interference through their trade unions to protect the industry .

2. Avoid  unnecessary taxations (CESS etc. ) and burden those companies involved in the industry .

3. Take actions to stop export of low quality tea (sweepings )  to the international market which has already tarnished the image of Ceylon TEA . In certain cases this sought of thing happen with the blessings of politicians .

4. Lead to do the marketing campaign in the international markets and allocate required funds .

5. Provide necessary concessions to tea industry such as subsidized manure , electricity etc to increase productivity .

6.Encourage production of low cost power generation such as hydro , Dondra etc. and buy excess power supply by the government at a reasonable price .

As stated in future branded tea would have a better market condition and Sri Lanka will have to market our tea under good brands . At the moment we have only DILMAH TEA to the international standard and must encourage more players of that standard .

To reap the full benefit of the interntional market we should concentrate of value addition to our tea . Brand name like LIPTON what they are doing is they never market our tea ass CEYLON TEA . Instead they do value addition and market under their brand name . Why we can not do this to get the full benefit of it ?

gagamini wrote:It is correct that TEA industry is going to have a good time in future with up trend in the prices .
As far as Sri Lanka is concern , we have to do lot to regain our lost positions and  win over our rivalries . Contribution of TEA industrialists as well as politicians are a must in this respect .

TEA INDUSTRY is required to do

1.Increase the efficiency of tea industry particularly  increase the labour output and enhance the productivity of the yield in turn which would help to reduce the COP

2. Production of the quality TEA for the export market to keep its reputation of Ceylon TEA

3. Contribute to the worldwide campaigns  to enhance goodwill of our tea .


4. Increase the research and development to find ways to increase the efficiency of their output and enhance the quality of products .

POLITICIANS

1. Avoid unnecessary political  interference through their trade unions to protect the industry .

2. Avoid  unnecessary taxations (CESS etc. ) and burden those companies involved in the industry .

3. Take actions to stop export of low quality tea (sweepings )  to the international market which has already tarnished the image of Ceylon TEA . In certain cases this sought of thing happen with the blessings of politicians .

4. Lead to do the marketing campaign in the international markets and allocate required funds .

5. Provide necessary concessions to tea industry such as subsidized manure , electricity etc to increase productivity .

6.Encourage production of low cost power generation such as hydro , Dondra etc. and buy excess power supply by the government at a reasonable price .

As stated in future branded tea would have a better market condition and Sri Lanka will have to market our tea under good brands . At the moment we have only DILMAH TEA to the international standard and must encourage more players of that standard .

To reap the full benefit of the interntional market we should concentrate of value addition to our tea . Brand name like LIPTON what they are doing is they never market our tea ass CEYLON TEA . Instead they do value addition and market under their brand name . Why we can not do this to get the full benefit of it ?

Thanks. Dilmah is expanding their tea business globally under their brand name. I have seen other brands name such as Unilever (Lipton), Watawala and Bogawantalawa etc in super markets. Laugh Gas too is having some of their tea brand in their super markets. I have tasted them and their tea also good to drink. How about Watawala (WATA)? What is the brand name they use to market their tea globally? Does Bogawantalawa (BOPL) use their own name, private labels or Walters bay brand name to market their tea abroad especially in the USA? What about other plantations such as Kelany Valley (KVAL) and Maskeliya (MASK) and Talawakele plantation (TPL)?

The brands you have mentioned above are mostly in the local market and I have hardly seen them in the shelves of super markets away from our shores . Even some brands not known to outsiders as less advertising campaign . DILMAH in that respect has gone forward to the international market in an aggressive manner .

I have seen some brands in Australasian super markets and they have highlighted them as come from Ceylon tea, one is particularly from Watawala plantation. So there are some initial introductions can be seen in small way. On the other hand Dilmah Brand has established in foreign markets.

I just now found some links on Ceylon tea and we can get some idea about their brand and how they market their tea etc.

http://www.akbar.com/about/akbar_brand.php

http://www.bogawantalawa.com/

http://www.waltersbay.com/

http://www.watawalatea.com/

http://www.mabrocteas.com/our-plantations

http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2014/05/11/fin01.asp

Demand will offset tea yield drop, say planters
The drop in tea production could be offset by demand for quality tea and high prices in the global market, said tea producers. Planters said that they were optimistic that yields would increase with the improvement in weather and production would scale up. Tea yields slumped sharply in March with a drop of 7.1 million kilogrammes year-on-year due to the drought in the plantations. The Low Grown sector recorded the worst drop of of 4.1 million kgs compared to the corresponding month last year.

Planters said that the hot and humid weather in the Low Grown areas during March resulted in a temperature build up in the soil which is not conducive for growth and thereby the month-on-month drop of 21 percent in crop in the Low Grown sector.
Tea yields slumped for the third consecutive month, down almost 22 percent from a year earlier. Yields increased 4.2 percent last year to notch 340.2 million kgs surpassing the previous all-time high of 331.4 million kilogrammes in 2010. During the first quarter this year the harvest was 73.5 million kilogrammes a drop of 8.1 million kilogrammes compared to the harvest during the corresponding period last year.
Low Grown recorded the largest drop of 4.8 mkgs which was followed by a drop of 2.1 mkgs and 1.1 Mkgs from the High and Medium elevations.

Tea production in the High elevation in March this year recorded a drop of 1,842,486 kilograms, Medium Growns - 1, 224,622 kilograms and Low Growns dropped by 4,110,912 kilograms accounting for a total drop of 7,178,020 kilograms compared to the corresponding month of 2013.
Sri Lanka recorded export earning of US$ 1.54 billion up compared to US$ 1.48 billion in 2011. Tea production during the first three months this year was 73,551,600 kilograms which was a drop of 8,118, 636 kilograms compared to the yield of 81,670,236 kilograms recorded in the corresponding period last year.

There are new developments in global tea industry: Tea tourism in India

http://www.timesofoman.com/Features/580/Article-Tea-tourism-opens-new-avenues-for-North-East

Tea tourism opens new avenues for North East

BYAFTAB H. KOLA | MAY 11, 2014 , 2 : 31 PM GST

A road winds through a tea in Darjeeling.
Kolkata: Tea producers in the North East, backed by the government, are aggressively venturing into tea tourism projects. Tea tourism has become a rage these days.

Lured by the irresistible charm of the perfumed mist and eucalyptus-scented air permeating above the sweeping acres of manicured tea plantations, tourists have found solace in its environs for decades.

Tea belt in northeastern India starts from Darjeeling, Dooars and Terai, and stretches to Assam and beyond. The Dooars region, blessed with rich tropical forests interspersed with a number of hill brooks amidst great expanse of tea plantations, snuggles in the foothills of Himalayas. With tea production pegged at 220 million kilograms with tea gardens spanning an area of 97,280 ha, the economy of Dooars hinges on tea and tourism, besides timber.

Holiday destination
Darjeeling, a premier holiday destination in the region, is yet another place where tea cultivation is part and parcel of life. Darjeeling tea is considered an exclusive tea all over the world. Darjeeling embraces tea cultivation area of 17,820 hectares.

Assam tea is also quite famous. A key state in east India, Assam produces 507 million kg of tea grown in 3,12, 210 hectares of area. Little wonder that tea tourism has become a rage these days in the northeastern region of India.

Though South India too has its small share in tea tourism, it is the North East belt that has initiated efforts to promote tea tourism. Tea tourism is defined as 'tourism that is motivated by an interest in the history, culture, traditions and consumption of tea.'

Visual treat
A tea garden is by itself a visual treat for the eyes. Its picturesque settings, coupled with knowing the process of tea cultivation right from plucking of the leaves to the finished product including packaging, are reasons enough for visitors to savour the experience. In addition, the cultural festivals of the tea tribes, staying in the comfort of old-style tea bungalows provides for a unique experience.

Owners of tea estates and the tourism authorities in the region are planning to develop more facilities and infrastructure in tea plantations in order to lure more tourists. These can also help generate more employment and bring in additional revenue to the local people. The government of West Bengal and some eastern states are working on exciting plans on this front.

The North Eastern Council and the West Bengal government have prepared an integrated ten-year master plan for the region. The plan envisages reviewing the existing facilities and developing more infrastructure. The plan was prepared with tourism infrastructure and resource analysis leading to formulation of tourism strategy and tourist circuit.

The plan will include the over-all experience of tourists in the midst of a tea garden or estate, staying in a heritage bungalow, at a homestay in a tea village or at a modern resort.

Tea garden trekking

Trekking in the natural environment of a lush tea plantation, undertaking a tea tasting session, visiting a modern tea factory and even trying one's hand at plucking tea leaves are all ideas of tea tourism. The government will allow individual tea gardens to exploit tourism potential.

Tea growers are now in the process of registering their names and have submitted particulars pertaining to them and their tea gardens.

So, get set to experience the entire process of tea manufacture — from plucking tea leaves, drying, processing in the factory to packaging, all in the form of a holiday.

AFTAB H. KOLA - Our Correspondent

Algeria interested in buying Sri Lankan tea, fruits and vegetable juices – envoy conveys message to CCC

Algeria is inviting Sri Lankan businesses to export tea, fruit and vegetable juices and many other products to that country.

This invitation was made by Echarif Mohammed-Hacene, Ambassador for Algeria in Sri Lanka and India, when he visited the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, accompanied by Consul General for Algeria in Sri Lanka, Mukthar Marikkar.

He held a meeting with CEO/Secretary General of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Harin Malwatte, while Mrs. Lilakshi De Mel, Senior Assistant Secretary General of the Chamber, was also present.

During the meeting, the ambassador said, Sri Lanka can exports items such as, tea, fruits and vegetable juices, textiles, garments specially semi-finished traditional garments for women and spices.

Ambassador Echarif says, the Algerian consumers prefer to drink blended tea with mint and sugar and also would like to purchase tea in consumer bags.

"Algerian consumers prefer to drink blended tea with mint and sugar. Tea exported from Sri Lanka is channeled through Gulf region hence the country of origin is not reflected properly in Algeria" said the Ambassador Echarif.

He also said the Algerian consumer is cost conscious hence pricing should be economical.

"Tea exported from Sri Lanka should be in consumer packs of 500 gms to 2 kgs. Tea bags are not popular hence they wish to use tea in consumer packs which could be purchased directly from the market," added the Algerian envoy.

He further said that since Algeria is a non-alcoholic country, there is a great demand for tea, fruit and vegetable juices. At present fruits/vegetable juices to that country are imported from Mediterranean countries.

Speaking during the occasion, Harin Malwatte, CEO of the Ceylon Chamber Commerce told the ambassador, that there is lot of scope to develop trade, investment and tourism between Sri Lanka and Algeria.(CCC)


-the island 14.05.2014

According to quarterly results released so far tea based companies such as BALA, UDPL, and TPL have made some profits despite lower output and lower turnover in the first quarter. On the other hand companies’ exposures to rubber are making losses. EPS is low in KAHA and still growth players willing to pay premiums for this stock. It may be tea time this time. It was a rubber and palm oil time before 2011. Once we see recovery in rubber prices there could be great demand for rubber related stocks. In the mean time Tata Global Tea beverages closed at Rs.144.45 on a volume 513,097 BSE and at Rs.144.75 on a volume of 3,6588,79 NSE in India on Friday. What a day?

http://www.virtualpressoffice.com/publicsiteContentFileAccess?fileContentId=1613383&fromOtherPageToDisableHistory=Y&menuName=Search


Ceylon Tea a Gift to the world
Natural, Healthy, Refreshing

(Virtual Press Office) -- Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean is known for its diverse cultures and scenery. While blessed with fortunes of nature to give a different array of climates, tea was first introduced to Sri Lanka during the 19th Century by a Scottish planter as a replacement crop for coffee.

An Island with an area of 65,525 sq. k.ms in the Indian Ocean with a history of tea culture of one and a half centuries, it is today the largest orthodox tea exporter in the world exporting to over 145 countries around the globe, with a market share of 20%. It produces over 305 million kg of tea with many varieties and has a share of 10% of the global tea production.

These are seven agro-climatic districts in which Ceylon tea is grown from which Sri Lanka offers to the tea connoisseurs of the world teas of different characteristics to suit their needs.

Nuwara Eliya: delicately fragrant (Elevation at 2000m. above sea level):
Nuwara Eliya is unique and so is its tea. The fragrance of cypress trees and the menthol of wild mint and eucalyptus float through the air and contribute to the characteristic flavour of the tea.

Uda Pussellawa – Exquisitely tangy: The tea grown on the Uda Pussellawa mountain range is of medium body with majestic flavour.

Dimbula – Refreshingly mellow: The plantations are located at 1050 to 1650 m. above sea level. The monsoon rains and the cold weather produce a range of teas from full bodied to light and delicate.

Uva - exotically aromatic (Elevation 900 to 1500m above sea level) : The Uva teas have a truly unique flavour and are commonly used in many different blends.

Kandy - Intensely full bodied (Elevation 600 to 1200m) : Kandy is an ancient capital of Ceylon. The tea plantations produce a full bodied tea. Ideal for those who like their tea strong and bursting with flavour.

Ruhuna: The soil condition in Ruhuna gives the leaves blackness and imparts in the brew a strong and distinctive taste. This makes a perfect cup for those who like their tea thick and sweet with or without milk.

Sabaragamuwa: Smooth and Full-bodied. Sabaragamuwa agro-climatic region ranging from sea level to about 2500 feet is also referred as low grown tea and typically known for their stylish leaf appearance and larger particle size. The blackness of the dry leaf is a distinctive feature, as are the deep red colour of the infused brew of its Black Tea and its smooth and full-bodied liquors.

The Flavour and aroma of Sri Lanka’s teas are as distinctive and unique as the climate and geography that give rise to them. The quality and the freshness of the teas are guaranteed by the Sri Lanka Tea Board – a government apex body of the country. The symbol of “Lion Logo” on the retail pack is the guarantee given by the Sri Lanka Tea Board that the tea is pure Ceylon tea, packed in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Tea Board is represented by all stake holders: manufacturers, brokers, exporters and tea related government agencies. It is responsible for regulatory activities and development and promotion of Ceylon Tea overseas.

Sri Lanka Tea Board also provides necessary assistance in establishing business contacts between buyers and Sri Lankan Exporters.

http://www.virtualpressoffice.com/publicsiteContentFileAccess?fileContentId=1613347&fromOtherPageToDisableHistory=Y&menuName=Search

Ceylon Tea – Pure Sophistication

Sri Lanka,, though relatively small in size, is the world`s forth largest tea producer. Its annual tea production is approximately 320 million kg, which accounts for 9% of the world tea production. Sri Lanka exports most of its tea, making it the world’s third largest exporter of tea. The annual tea export volume of Sri Lanka is over 315 million kg. It has a share of 18% in the global tea export market. In other words, Sri Lanka teas have been developed to cater to the tastes of tea drinkers all around the globe.

The strength of Sri Lanka’s tea lies however not merely in the volume of production, but also in its superior quality and taste. Tea thrives on sloping terrain, and is grown in Sri Lanka in the central highlands and southern inland foothills, at various elevations.

The teas produced in Sri Lanka vary from small leaf to long leaf teas and from light fragrant cup character to strong, bright coloury cup character. Most of the tea brands and blends in the world market have been enhanced by a percentage of Ceylon Tea. The main characteristics of Ceylon Tea are – rich, mellow flavour, golden color and pleasant natural aroma, which ensure its popularity whenever Ceylon Tea is drunk.

Much of the black tea produced in Sri Lanka is by orthodox process. The plucking of tea leaves is done only manually, to make certain that only the unopened leaf bud and two leaves are plucked to guarantee the quality and taste of tea. Sri Lanka also produces a small quantity of CTC (cut, tear and curl) teas and Green tea, instant tea and organic teas.

Sri Lanka produces tea to suit every pallet, and this has remained the hallmark of the country’s tea industry. It is the topography of the hill country, with undulating grounds, that brings about diversity to tea. Tea is a product of infinite variety. The tea bush, soil, altitude, climatic changes, wind velocity and seasons all play their part in infusing the varying degrees of quality in to tea. It is so sensitive to atmospheric changes that day-to-day weather changes leave their impression on the quality of the tea.

The diversity in specialty of its orthodox tea process has been the power and strength of the tea industry in Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya, Uva, Dimbula, Uda Pussellawa, Kandy, Ruhuna and Sabaragamuwa are the prime tea growing regions of Sri Lanka. Over the years, Sri Lanka has earned a reputation as a producer of high quality tea and Ceylon Tea is synonymous with quality and taste. Ceylon Tea and 07 agro climate regional teas have been registered as geographical indications to prevent misuse of Sri Lankan Teas by overseas packers. Sri Lanka Tea Board conducts Ceylon Specialty Estate Tea of the Year Competitions in order to popularize straight-line garden marks and to recognize quality excellence by tea factories in Sri Lanka. In 2008, 2010, and 201 1this event was held in USA, Japan and Russia respectively.

Sri Lanka exports a large quantity of tea packets and tea bags to add value to its tea than any other tea producing country in the World. The value added tea exports account for nearly 45% of the total export volume. Ceylon Tea is exported in a wide range of packets i.e. box board cartons, foil packs, soft wooden boxes, metal cans, ceramic jars, wooden boxes etc. The tea bags component has now reached 22 million kg per year.

Sri Lanka teas reach approximately 150 countries today. At present Middle Eastern countries and Gulf region absorbs over 50% of tea exports from Sri Lanka. Russia is the single largest buyer of Ceylon Tea and Russia and CIS countries purchases around 25% of all exports.

Sri Lanka Tea Board, the apex government body responsible for development and promotion of Ceylon Tea, has taken many steps to ensure that all teas produced and exported from Sri Lanka adhere to the minimum quality standards of ISO 3720. The promotion of Ceylon tea is linked to the lion logo the symbol of quality, which is the trademark of the Sri Lanka Tea Board. The Lion Logo that appears on Ceylon tea packs denotes not only the country of origin but also the quality of Ceylon Tea.

Ceylon Tea has been recognized as the cleanest tea in the world in terms of pesticide residues by the International Standards Organization. Currently many Sri Lankan Tea Manufacturers and exporters have obtained ISO, HACCP and other international certifications to be ahead of the other tea producing countries and also to cater to the changing global consumer requirements. Fair trade, ethical tea partnership and good manufacturing practices etc. are the other concepts followed by the Sri Lanka Tea Trade to move in to the 21st Century. The commitment of all stakeholders in the industry has helped Sri Lanka to sustain its leadership in the world orthodox tea market and also in the value added tea export sector. The Sri Lanka tea industry received another feather in its cap in 2008 when “Montreal Protocol” recognized Ceylon Tea as “Ozone friendly”, the only teas to have achieved such a feat as yet. Sri Lanka Tea Board is in the process of registering a new logo for Ozone Friendly Pure Ceylon Tea in overseas markets and promoting the most environmentally friendly tea to the world,

cse1981 wrote:03 plantation company uploaded there 31.03.2014 financial statement

MADU,BALA and KVAL

madu running losses in the quater

Three types of plantation stocks have their own personality. Even during depressed market condition MADU generated over 100% return for traders. Quarter ending 31/12/2014 highest trading price was Rs.22.70. Previous quarter it was trading as low as Rs.9/. Then it shot up to Rs.22.50. We have to study personality of stocks as well. It is also time to study stagnated tea stocks.

Some plantations companies already have timber projects and hydropower projects. In addition some companies are trying to become self-sufficient in green energy to operate all their tea factories while committed to reduce their energy consumption in the future.. Their way forward is to improve productivity and take actions to reduce costs. Some have diversified into other crops such as fruits and spices as well. There are some positive developments in tea related companies. If they can maintain higher premium prices for Ceylon tea in the coining years while improving quality, tea industry will have very bright future. There were attractive tea prices for Sri-Lankan tea despite tea glut in Kenya tea in 2013. Tea is fast becoming popular as a health drink globally. It is going to be tea not coffee. Next 10 year is belonging to tea.

In the mean time there were good demands for plantations companies in India on Friday. Diana Tea company, Goodricke Group Ltd,Rossell India Ltd, Warren Tea Ltd, Assam Company (India) Ltd, Jay Shree Tea & Industries Ltd and Tara global beverages  went up by more than 11%,3%, 9%., 3%, 7%. 8% and 1% respectively.All the tea and coffee stocks are moving well in the Indian market. Volumes also are rising .

As I said before stock prices to go up there should be strong market situation.

http://home.bt.com/lifestyle/wellbeing/get-your-health-down-to-a-tea-11363903978875

Get your health down to a tea

As new research suggests drinking tea could prevent breast cancer, Lisa Salmon takes a look the other boundless benefits of a nice brew.

The facts speak for themselves: the average Brit consumes three cups of tea a day; after water, tea is the second most consumed drink in the country; and most days, approximately 40% of the nation's fluid intake will be, yes, tea.
But while many of us might think the main gain from all these cuppas is simply that it’s habitual/sociable/comforting/a chance to have a screen break, there are some much deeper health reasons why a regular tea round is a good idea.
Newly released Chinese research has suggested that regular tea drinkers have a 21% decreased risk of breast cancer, compared with people who don't drink it.
“It’s likely to be associated with the rich polyphenol content of both black and green teas,” says women’s health specialist and broadcaster Dr Catherine Hood.
"Polyphenols have been reported to have antioxidant activity and potential anti-tumour effect.”
That said, Cancer Research UK's senior health information officer Yinka Ebo, is keen to point out how the study might not be accurate after all. It relies on people remembering how much tea they drank, and isn’t clear about the type of tea or how long it was drunk for.

"While we British are known for our love of tea, this Chinese study doesn’t show that drinking tea will reduce the risk of breast cancer," she says.
"Most evidence from western countries like the UK have not found tea affects cancer risk. Although a few studies have shown that extracts from green tea may have some effect on cancer cells in the lab, this has not yet been backed up by research in people."
Whichever side of the cancer prevention argument is right though, there’s no doubting the other many health benefits of putting on the kettle. Dr Carrie Ruxton, from the Tea Advisory Panel (TAP), is here to guide you through them.
Brain
Observational studies suggest drinking tea is related to better cognitive function, because polyphenols may have a beneficial effect on blood flow.

Dr Ruxton says: "Researchers have looked at keeping your mental faculties for as long as possible as you get older, and they've found these faculties are better in tea drinkers and people with high polyphenol intakes.”

Mouth
Tea is a natural source of fluoride, and provides about 70% of the mineral in UK diets. Fluoride helps prevent tooth enamel from breaking down, thus reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.


A University of Derby study last year suggested there may be too much fluoride in cheap teabags, but Dr Ruxton points out that the study estimated the average daily tea intake was one litre, while in the UK it's just over 500mg, "so the threat was exaggerated".
Tea is also naturally anti-bacterial, and less bacteria in the mouth means less tooth decay.

Skin
Good hydration improves the skin, and a study led by Dr Ruxton three years ago, where some subjects drank up to six mugs of tea a day and others drank water, found tea was just as hydrating as water.

Heart

High black tea consumption may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by improving blood vessel function, according to a Dutch study. Dr Tim Bond, from TAP, adds: "It confirms earlier studies showing the same effect and provides further evidence for the heart health benefits of black tea in amounts of at least three cups daily.”

Gut
Polyphenols from tea and other sources are thought to have a beneficial effect on “good” gut bacteria.

Blood
A 2013 Australian study found black tea could help stabilise blood pressure, and additional research has suggested tea could have an effect on blood-sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, thus lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Bones
Most people have milk in tea, and while some studies have said the addition of milk slows down the absorption of polyphenols, many others have said it has no effect.
Four cups of tea with milk provides 21% of an adult's daily calcium requirement, which is certainly beneficial for women who need calcium to strengthen their bones as they get older.

Future of TEA looks very bright as companies like starbucks moving to tea.
but real future of our RPC's and Ceylon tea will greatly depend on replanting and at the moment we rely on 150 years old ,seed tea bushes.???

celtic tiger wrote:Future of TEA looks very bright as companies like starbucks moving to tea.
but real  future of our RPC's and Ceylon tea will greatly depend on replanting and at the moment we rely on 150 years old ,seed tea bushes.???

At least there is some replanting in Sri-Lanka. In addition global consumers have started to find out quality nature of Ceylon tea. Countries like Bangladesh and Malaysia hardly do any replanting. In the past Bangladesh was one of the top exporters in the world and now they hardly do any export. They have some of the oldest tea bushes in the world. Time to come they too will end up with as one of the tea importing countries due to increased population and falling tea output there. Other highly populated countries such as India, China and Pakistan too will create strong demand in the future due to increased population. Asia pacific region is going to be the largest tea market in the world in the future surpassing other regions such as Middle East and Europe including Russia. Other strong tea market to watch is North America. Even Japan will create great demand for tea in the future. Therefore there will be great demand for Tea in the coming years. Further, tea prices are very low when compare with coffee. There is a new trend for tea even in countries such as India and China now.

More about plantations stocks!

If KAHA can trade around Rs.40 in a low EPS and lower NAP how much worth stocks such as MASK, BOPL, BALA,MADU, TPL and ELPL now. If X is this much how much worth Y? They have better land areas and high quality tea including timber. They have better earning prospects in addition to higher NAP. As a group tea group is massively undervalued now.

I feel now KAHA had enough of trading below 40.

Performance of Stocks of sector TEA AND COFFEE In India

http://www.topstockresearch.com/INDIAN_STOCKS/TEA_AND_COFFEE/StockPerformance.html

Moving Average of Stocks of sector TEA AND COFFEE IN INDIA

http://www.topstockresearch.com/INDIAN_STOCKS/TEA_AND_COFFEE/SectorMovingAverageTEA_AND_COFFEEStocks1.html

There are few good fundamentally strong TEA sector counters with very good Dividend Yield & Discounted Price.
Further the Strong Future Earning of these can see appreciation in the longhaul say 12-18 months from now

My picks are
Namu
Kgal
Tpl
Elpl
Bpl

Speculative
Mask
Madu

For me best plantation is WATA. why ?
1.trend setter in the sector
2.well diversified to absorb shocks
3.biggest palm oil planter
4.owners of one of the two palm oil mills in the country
5.less dependency on rubber as prices declining
6.moving into dairy sector which will be a future winner.
7.JV with TATA beverage and.....

It is true that above listed tea companies namely, TPL, MASK, NAMU, BOPL, ELPL and WATA are producing some of the best high quality tea in the world in addition to seasonal tea such UVA tea, Western high grown tea and other high grown tea and some black tea coming from mountains in UVA, Western and NuweraEliya areas. How did you all miss another three major tea related companies such as KVAL, UDPL and BALA? They also produce some of the quality black tea.

MASK collecting these days

celtic tiger wrote:For me best plantation is WATA. why ?
1.trend setter in the sector
2.well diversified to absorb shocks
3.biggest palm oil planter
4.owners of one of the two palm oil mills in the country
5.less dependency on rubber as prices declining
6.moving into dairy sector which will be a future winner.
7.JV with TATA beverage and.....

I only got WATA and the average is 9.70. One of the best deals of mine. Now considering the exit point.

Very Good SteveApple.
The price can come down. Its hitting RESISTANTs

In my opinion,
If you buy plantaion stocks now, anaathai.....!