Guwahati: Assam has achieved a landmark milestone in the nation’s beverage industry with the Tinsukia-based Chota Tingrai Tea Estate successfully launching
India’s first commercially produced Matcha tea.
Announcing this historic feat on X, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated, “Your favourite Matcha brew will now be produced in Assam. Furthering our glorious tea legacy, Assam becomes the first State in India to commercially produce Matcha tea.” He emphasised that this diversification strengthens the “Brand Assam Tea” globally, noting that the initiative was bolstered by strong India-Japan relations and has already commanded an impressive price at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC).
Matcha, a premium powder derived from specially shade-grown tea leaves, is unique because the entire leaf is consumed, offering superior antioxidants and amino acids compared to traditional steeped green teas. To achieve this, Chota Tingrai Tea Estate spent a decade partnering with Japanese experts, agronomists, and equipment suppliers to establish a state-of-the-art automated manufacturing facility.
This development signals a significant shift for Assam, traditionally renowned for its robust black teas. The inaugural batch made history at GTAC’s Sale 27 today, when Lot No. 7001 was auctioned for Rs 3,000 via J Thomas & Co Pvt Ltd, secured by the Guwahati-based Sheosons Chai Co.
”This is a milestone we are incredibly proud of,” said Mrityunjay Jalan, Director of Chota Tingrai Tea Estate. “It is the result of a dedicated partnership with our Japanese counterparts, and we are confident that our Matcha will soon find a home in households worldwide.”
