Assam has scripted a new chapter in India’s tea industry by becoming the first state in the country to commercially produce Matcha tea. The breakthrough has been achieved by Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia district, marking a significant diversification for the state’s globally renowned tea sector.
The achievement comes after nearly a decade of research, planning and collaboration with Japanese tea experts, agronomists and technology providers. By combining Assam’s centuries-old tea-growing expertise with traditional Japanese Matcha production techniques, the estate has successfully produced authentic, premium-quality Matcha tea.
To support the initiative, Chota Tingrai Tea Estate established a fully automated Japanese tea processing facility equipped with advanced technology, enabling the production of high-quality Matcha that meets international standards.
The estate’s maiden batch of Matcha was sold at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre during Sale No. 27. The lot, numbered 7001, fetched ₹3,000 and was purchased by Guwahati-based Sheosons Chai Co. through J. Thomas & Co. Pvt. Ltd. on July 3.
Traditionally associated with Japan, China and Vietnam, Matcha has witnessed a surge in global demand owing to its vibrant green colour, distinctive flavour and numerous health benefits. However, production worldwide has struggled to keep pace with demand, creating new opportunities for emerging producers such as Assam.
Known across the world for its premium black tea, Assam’s entry into the speciality tea segment is expected to enhance India’s presence in high-value international tea markets.
Mrityunjay Jalan, Director of Chota Tingrai Tea Estate, described the achievement as the culmination of years of dedication. He said the estate has been producing whole-leaf green tea for nearly a decade, but the successful commercial production of authentic Matcha represents a landmark achievement. He also expressed confidence that the product would gain strong acceptance in both domestic and international markets.
Welcoming the development, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said Matcha tea, which has become a favourite beverage for consumers worldwide, will now be produced in Assam. He said the state’s diversification into the globally popular speciality tea would further strengthen the brand value of Assam Tea in international markets.
The Chief Minister also credited the achievement to the growing cooperation between India and Japan, stating that the strong bilateral relationship and collaboration across various sectors played a key role in making the project a reality. He added that the product has already fetched an encouraging price at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre, reflecting its promising market potential.