中国抹茶十年逆袭，抢走日本的暴利生意

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the paradox of China's position as the world's largest producer of matcha, while consumers are willing to pay exorbitant prices for imported Japanese matcha, reflecting a significant disparity in market perception and pricing [2][9][12]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - In 2022, the average export price of Japanese tea reached $27.3 per kilogram, approximately 200 RMB, which is four times higher than that of Chinese tea exports [6]. - Domestic consumers often pay high prices for Japanese matcha, with 50 grams of Uji matcha priced at 368 RMB in premium supermarkets, while local tea farmers sell raw tea leaves for only 20 RMB per kilogram [5][7]. - The demand for matcha in China has been increasing, with the market showing a growth rate of over 10% annually [22]. Group 2: Historical Context - Matcha originated in China during the Tang Dynasty, known as "mocha," and gained popularity in the Song Dynasty before being introduced to Japan [10][11]. - The production techniques for matcha were brought back to Japan by a monk during the Southern Song Dynasty, leading to its widespread popularity in Japan, while it faded in China until recent years [12]. Group 3: Production Landscape - China has seen significant advancements in matcha production over the past decade, with Zhejiang province becoming the largest producer, accounting for a substantial portion of national output [15]. - In 2023, Zhejiang's matcha production exceeded 4,200 tons, generating over 600 million RMB in value, while Guizhou produced 1,200 tons with a value exceeding 350 million RMB [15][16]. - Japan's matcha production has been declining due to an aging workforce, with the number of tea farmers dropping from 53,000 in 2000 to 12,000 in 2020, leading to a significant reduction in production capacity [18][19]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Despite Japan holding a 70% share of the high-end matcha market, its supply capabilities are struggling to meet the increasing demand, leading to a reliance on Chinese imports for lower-end products [17][20]. - Chinese matcha has begun to fill the gap in the market, with Guizhou's matcha being exported to Japan, accounting for 70% of Japan's imports in the first half of the year [20][21].