Matcha’s New Export Logic: From Low-Cost Volume to Standards-First

In early 2026, China’s matcha exports surged over 7-fold. Values exceeded RMB 140 million. China’s matcha industry is transforming. It is shifting from “low-cost volume” to “standards-first.”

Every export batch must pass over 500 pesticide and heavy metal tests. It must also hold organic certifications from the EU, the US, Japan, and China. In June 2026, a dedicated 13-digit HS code for matcha took effect.

As a matcha powder factory, we practice these standards daily. We use the strictest requirements to craft every batch for our clients.

We have covered China’s matcha production landscape and regional capacity in a separate article. Please refer to Global Matcha Supply Shifts: Why China Became the World‘s Leading Producer. This article focuses on export standards and compliance pathways. These include 500+ tests, four organic certifications, and the dedicated HS code now in effect.

In 2025, China’s matcha production exceeded 12,000 tons. That accounted for nearly 70% of global output. Over the past five years, production grew at 28.67% annually. Export scale expanded alongside it. Matcha products from multiple regions now reach over 50 countries worldwide.

China’s matcha is no longer just low-end OEM. It is becoming a core supplier in the global premium matcha market. Some regions have launched special development plans. These plans focus on “expanding scale, improving quality, expanding markets, and building brands.” The goal is to build global high-quality matcha bases and export zones.

Why has China’s matcha seized this opportunity? The answer lies in a fundamental industry shift.

In the past, tea exports were mostly raw leaves. Supply chains were short, and value was low. Today, a scaled, standardized, and industrialized production model has taken shape.

Every batch must pass “500+ checks.” We follow “same quality, same standard.” Every batch undergoes over 500 EU-standard tests. Pesticides and heavy metals must be undetectable. From fresh-leaf pesticide screening to cold-chain traceability, every step is rigorous. This is how we earn our reputation for “clean tea, safe tea.” International testing is never optional. It is the entry ticket.

Four organic certifications are the quality passport. Certifications from the EU, the US, Japan, and China are mandatory for premium markets. Our factory holds all four. Every batch of our matcha powder meets the strictest global standards before reaching our clients.

“Same quality, same standard” runs through the entire chain. Export and domestic products share the same gardens, the same lines, and the same testing. We follow “same factory, same line, same quality, same standard.” Clients receive the same grade of matcha powder, regardless of their market.

On June 5, 2026, China’s customs authority approved a dedicated 13-digit HS code for matcha. The code falls under the 0902 green tea category. It splits into two specific codes based on net packaging weight:

0902109000103: Net weight ≤ 3 kg per inner package

0902209000103: Net weight > 3 kg per inner package

Since June 5, all matcha imports and exports must use these codes. This breakthrough came from coordinated efforts. Industry associations, regional governments, and leading enterprises jointly submitted the application.

The dedicated HS code means more than just a new number. It gives matcha exports an independent statistical identity. Volumes, values, and destinations are now fully trackable. Customs declarations are more precise and efficient. Chinese matcha now has its own “identity marker” in global trade. For buyers, this means more transparent supply chains and more reliable batch traceability.

In early 2025, Chinese matcha achieved its first large-scale export to matcha’s birthplace. It competed directly with local matcha and succeeded on quality. Winning recognition in the world’s most discerning market marks a major step forward. Chinese matcha has moved from “catching up” to “running alongside.”

Today, Chinese matcha has entered diverse food cultures worldwide.European and US patisseries feature it in macarons and ice cream. Southeast Asian street stalls flavor their teh tarik with it. In the Middle East, it accompanies festive celebrations. From modest beginnings to large-scale exports, Chinese matcha has grown remarkably.

China’s shift from “low-cost volume” to “standards-first” offers three clear benefits for B2B buyers:

Predictable quality. Over 500 tests and four organic certifications ensure every batch meets verifiable standards. Our matcha powder comes with full test reports and certification documents. This makes client inspection faster and easier.

Assured compliance. The dedicated HS code enables precise customs declarations. Export data is more transparent. Buyers can track origin and batch information clearly. Our export team knows the clearance requirements of major markets. We provide full compliance support.

Stable supply. China produces nearly 70% of the world’s matcha. Scale ensures reliable capacity. Our factory is expanding production continuously. We can meet long-term, stable procurement needs.

Matcha originated in China. But being the “historical source” does not guarantee competitive advantage. What truly brings Chinese matcha to the world is the rigor of 500+ tests. Quality assurance comes from four organic certifications. Trade identity comes from a dedicated HS code. Industrial discipline comes from the principle of “same quality, same standard.”

We are a matcha powder factory. We craft every batch with the strictest standards. Our matcha powder holds organic certifications from the EU, the US, Japan, and China. Every batch comes with 500+ test reports. Whatever market your brand serves, our quality standards help you clear customs with confidence.

Contact us to request samples and full certification documents. Let our standards safeguard your matcha products.

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