A Global Matcha Shortage Is Expected This Spring — Here’s Why

A Global Shortage of Matcha Anticipated This Spring

Matcha enthusiasts around the world may face a shortage of their beloved green tea powder in the coming months. The surge in global demand for matcha, a green tea-based powder known for its antioxidant properties, has caught the attention of industry experts and tea producers. Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) reported a significant increase in matcha production from 2010 to 2023, rising from 1,471 tons to 4,176 tons, marking a 185% surge as highlighted by The Japan Times. Moreover, more than half of the matcha produced in Japan is now being exported internationally, adding to the strain on the supply chain.

The growing popularity of matcha is attributed to two main factors: a heightened awareness of the health benefits associated with this antioxidant-rich beverage and its widespread promotion on social media platforms. Shiori Yuen, head of the Overseas Division at a tea company based in Uji, noted that even markets in the Middle East and Africa have witnessed a surge in matcha orders due to the rising trend of matcha lattes and other flavoured matcha drinks being shared on social media. As per The Guardian, Arthur Tong, co-founder of Tea Craft in Sydney, highlighted that the shortage is impacting high-quality matcha used in cafes, with potential repercussions on lower-grade options.

The Global Japanese Tea Association offers a glimmer of hope by indicating an upcoming matcha harvest that could provide temporary relief from the shortage. The association explains that matcha is exclusively made from tea leaves harvested in spring, making it naturally scarce after the winter period. Unlike other teas, matcha requires tencha leaves to be meticulously ground into a fine powder, a time-consuming process. While the sudden increase in demand initially overwhelmed grinding facilities, the association is optimistic that this imbalance can be rectified.

To address the issue proactively, the Japanese government has announced new subsidies to incentivise local tea growers to focus on producing more tencha leaves over other types of tea. This strategic move aims to ensure a stable supply of matcha and prevent future shortages from occurring. Despite the current challenges posed by the global matcha shortage, industry experts and tea producers are exploring innovative solutions to meet the escalating demand for this revered green tea powder.

In conclusion, the outbreak of a matcha shortage on a global scale has shed light on the intricate dynamics of the tea industry and the impact of rising consumer demand on the availability of matcha. As tea producers navigate through this challenging period, the anticipation of the upcoming matcha harvest offers a glimpse of hope for matcha enthusiasts worldwide. Stay tuned for further developments on how the tea industry addresses this pressing issue and ensures a sustainable supply of matcha for years to come.