World's thirst for matcha dries up global supplies

The global demand for matcha, a finely powdered green tea, has outpaced supply, leading to soaring prices. Several factors contribute to this shortage: 1. Increased Demand: The popularity of matcha has grown significantly in recent years, driven by its perceived health benefits and prominence in the wellness industry. 2. Climate Change Impact: Heatwaves and other extreme weather events have adversely affected tea crop yields in major producing regions, such as Japan. 3. Trade Tensions: The imposition of US tariffs on Japanese matcha has further strained the supply chain, making it more challenging for global markets to access this in-demand product. As a result, matcha prices have skyrocketed, making it more difficult for consumers and businesses to obtain this specialty tea. This supply-demand imbalance highlights the vulnerability of global food systems to various environmental and geopolitical factors, underscoring the need for greater resilience and diversification in the tea industry.