This shortage is affecting both domestic and international markets as global demand for the popular green tea powder surges to unprecedented levels
According to reports from multiple sources, Japan is facing a significant matcha shortage that began in late 2024. This shortage is affecting both domestic and international markets as global demand for the popular green tea powder surges to unprecedented levels.
The matcha shortage results from a combination of factors, including rising global demand, social media trends, and increased tourism to Japan. Japan's green tea export value grew by 25% in 2024, reaching $244 million. Traditional farming methods, which require meticulous care and labor-intensive techniques, have struggled to keep up with the demand. Climate change, an aging agricultural workforce, and a lack of successors have further strained the industry's ability to meet the demand.
Japanese matcha producers, including Marukyu Koyamaen, Ippodo Tea, and Ocha no Kanbayashi, have implemented measures to manage a shortage of matcha products. Ippodo Tea temporarily suspended sales until early 2025, while specialty stores in Tokyo and Kyoto restricted purchases to one item per person. Signs in Japanese tea shops warn of "extremely difficult" purchasing until the new harvest in June 2025.
Japan's matcha shortage has caused global supply disruptions and price increases, with Australian cafés waiting for up to three months for new shipments and Irish establishments facing supplier quotas. In Singapore, supermarkets have raised matcha product prices by 10-15% since mid-October 2023. To address supply gaps, international producers in China, South Korea, and Kenya have increased production. The shortage has also prompted social media trends, with "Japan Haul" videos showcasing tourists loading suitcases with matcha products.
A matcha shortage is expected to persist until June 2021, with the Japanese government considering measures to encourage green tea farmers to shift production towards tencha leaves for matcha powder. Government subsidies may be necessary to increase production capacity and modernize farming practices. Alternative sources are emerging, with countries like China, South Korea, and Kenya increasing their matcha production. Despite these efforts, the unique qualities of Japanese matcha and challenges in replicating its traditional methods may continue to impact global supply.
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Jenny, the tech wiz behind Jenny's Online Blog, loves diving deep into the latest technology trends, uncovering hidden gems in the gaming world, and analyzing the newest movies. When she's not glued to her screen, you might find her tinkering with gadgets or obsessing over the latest sci-fi release.What do you think of this blog? Write down at the COMMENT section below.
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