Guwahati, July 3: Long before high-level diplomatic visits and strategic partnerships dominated India-Japan relations, a quieter collaboration was taking root in Assam’s tea gardens. A decade later, it has delivered a historic first.
Assam has become the first state in India to commercially produce Matcha tea, with the inaugural batch from Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia fetching ₹3,000 per kilogram at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre.
Beyond the commercial milestone, the achievement reflects the success of a decade-long collaboration between India and Japan, during which Japanese expertise, specialised machinery and traditional Matcha-processing techniques were introduced to Assam’s tea industry.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the development as a new chapter in Assam’s tea legacy, saying the state had expanded beyond its globally celebrated black tea to enter one of the world’s fastest-growing premium tea markets.
The project combines Assam’s world-renowned tea-growing expertise with centuries-old Japanese Matcha traditions, creating a product that could open new opportunities in high-value international markets.
Unlike conventional green tea, Matcha is produced from shade-grown tea leaves that are carefully processed into a fine green powder. The unique cultivation method gives it its vibrant green colour, rich umami flavour and high antioxidant content, making it one of the most sought-after premium beverages worldwide.
While Matcha traces its roots to ancient Chinese tea traditions, it was refined and popularised in Japan, where it became an integral part of the country’s tea ceremony and cultural heritage. Today, global demand for Matcha has surged as consumers increasingly seek healthier beverages and functional foods.
Officials believe Assam’s entry into commercial Matcha production could significantly diversify the state’s tea sector, strengthen the global brand value of Assam Tea and create new income opportunities for growers willing to move into premium speciality teas.
For a state whose identity has long been built around robust black tea, the first commercial batch of Matcha represents more than a new product. It signals how international collaboration, innovation and traditional expertise can together redefine one of Assam’s oldest industries.
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