Matcha Shortage: Demand Exceeds Supply

Rumors about the shortage of matcha began to circulate in autumn 2023, when renowned Kyoto tea-making companies first limited the purchase of ground tea powder. Both tourists and locals began experiencing the disappearance of the popular product from store shelves. The greatest shortage is in the most valuable teas: these are the first-harvest matchas, obtained from the spring, first shoots of the Camellia sinensis tea bush. Previously, this exceptional quality raw material was used only for tea ceremonies, but today consumers worldwide are seeking it. Since these can be harvested only once a year, their quantity is inherently limited – while demand for all types of matcha continues to grow. Producers, especially in the West Japan region, are purchasing not only the first but also the second, third, and autumn harvest tencha leaves, from which they then prepare ground matcha. Tea powder is being bought by beverage manufacturers and traders worldwide. According to Jason Eng, ...