Assam Makes History With India's First Commercial Matcha Tea Production
Assam becomes India's first state to commercially produce matcha tea, fetching Rs 3,000 per kilogram at auction.
Assam has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first state in India to commercially produce matcha tea, marking a major development in the country's specialty tea sector. The inaugural batch of this premium Japanese-style tea was auctioned at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre, where it commanded a price of Rs 3,000 per kilogram—a substantial premium reflecting strong market demand for this luxury product.
Matcha, traditionally cultivated in Japan for centuries, has gained global popularity among health-conscious consumers and specialty beverage enthusiasts. The successful production and sale of Indian matcha represents a significant expansion of Assam's tea portfolio, which has long been dominated by orthodox and CTC varieties. This development demonstrates that Assam's favorable climate and agricultural expertise extend beyond conventional tea production into specialty segments.
The strong auction price indicates robust market interest in domestically produced matcha, which could open new revenue streams for Assam's tea gardens. Typically, imported matcha commands premium prices in Indian markets, making local production economically attractive for growers willing to invest in the specialized cultivation and processing techniques required.
This achievement positions Assam as a potential competitor in the global specialty tea market and could inspire other Indian tea-producing regions to explore similar ventures. The success may also attract investment from tea companies and exporters looking to tap into the growing international demand for matcha products. If scaled properly, commercial matcha production could enhance Assam's reputation as a diverse tea producer beyond its traditional offerings.
Source: NDTV
