Core Insights - The price of lemons has surged significantly this summer, with wholesale prices reaching 14.08 yuan per kilogram in July 2025, up from 7.76 yuan per kilogram in the same month last year, marking an increase of over 80% [1][3][23] - The most affected variety is the yellow lemon, which has seen its price double in some regions, such as Anju County, where the price reached around 8 yuan per jin [3][23] - The rising prices are attributed to supply-demand imbalances caused by extreme weather conditions affecting lemon production in key regions like Turkey, Spain, and Sichuan, which produces over 70% of China's yellow lemons [21][23] Industry Impact - The tea beverage industry is experiencing a shift in lemon sourcing, with many brands transitioning from yellow lemons to the more stable-priced fragrant lemons due to cost pressures [24][30] - Major tea brands like Mixue Ice City and Luckin Coffee have been impacted by the rising costs, with reports indicating that some stores are now selling lemon drinks at significantly higher prices [9][20] - The demand for fragrant lemons is increasing as they are favored for their aromatic qualities, which enhance the sensory experience of tea beverages [25][30] Market Trends - The trend of using fragrant lemons is becoming more prevalent, with a notable increase in their usage in new beverage products, as evidenced by a report showing that 48 out of 201 new products contained fragrant lemons [25][30] - The market for lemon tea has expanded rapidly, with a significant increase in the number of dedicated lemon tea stores, reflecting a growing consumer preference for lemon-based beverages [27][30] - Despite the rising prices, some traditional restaurants continue to use yellow lemons for their distinct flavor in drinks, indicating a potential market segment that may resist the shift to fragrant lemons [19][30]