The Matcha Shortage
Posted by Aiya Matcha on Aug 27th 2025
Why Quality Matters More Than Ever
Lately, Matcha lovers may have noticed rising prices or limited availability of their favorite green tea powder. The world is indeed experiencing a Matcha shortage driven by rising global demand, unpredictable weather, and fewer young farmers entering the tea industry. Authentic Ceremonial Grade Matcha requires painstaking care and traditional methods, which means production simply can’t be rushed.
Why Timing Matters
The first harvest for Ceremonial Grade Matcha occurs in May, when the youngest leaves are at their peak flavor and antioxidant levels. A second harvest in June focuses on Culinary Grade Matcha. After picking, leaves must be processed within 24 hours to preserve their quality, and the full transformation into the fine powder we all know and love can take months. This natural production rhythm explains why Matcha is often more readily available in the latter part of the year.
Matcha: More Than a Trend
Part of today’s demand surge is fueled by social media. From vibrant green lattes filling Instagram feeds to Matcha dessert hacks trending on TikTok, Matcha has captivated global attention. But its popularity isn’t just hype, Matcha’s history is deeply rooted in Japanese tea ceremony, with centuries of cultivation behind its unique flavor, health benefits, and cultural significance.
Why Brand Loyalty Matters During a Shortage
When supply is tight, it can be tempting to grab any Matcha you can find. But not all Matcha is created equal. Quality Matcha depends on centuries-old farming knowledge, ethical sourcing, and proper production methods. Brands that prioritize quantity over quality may cut corners, sourcing from less reputable farms or rushing production, resulting in lackluster taste and lower nutritional value.
Choosing brands with proven dedication to tradition and transparency ensures you’re getting authentic Matcha, not just green powder labeled as such. Supporting these brands also helps sustain the farmers and regions that keep real Matcha alive for future generations.
Aiya’s Commitment to Quality, Tradition & Sustainability
At Aiya, we’ve seen these industry challenges firsthand. But our commitment to quality never wavers. Aiya sources most of its Matcha from Nishio, Japan, a historic tea-growing region dating back to the 1200s. Many of our partner farmers have worked with Aiya for generations, passing down expertise to maintain exceptional consistency, flavor, and purity.
Family-owned since 1888, Aiya is the world’s largest producer of premium Japanese Matcha. We oversee the entire process from seed to bowl, something few brands can claim. The region’s pristine river water, fertile soil, and stable climate yield some of the most vibrant and nutrient-rich leaves in Japan.
The global Matcha shortage is real, but you don’t have to compromise on quality. By supporting brands like Aiya that prioritize tradition, sustainability, and authenticity, you’re not just buying Matcha; you’re preserving centuries of craftsmanship.