Matcha Supplier USA: Wholesale & Organic Market Insights

Matcha powder and whisk The U.S. matcha market has evolved from niche to mainstream, commanding 35% of global exports

1. Introduction

The United States has emerged as the world’s largest matcha import market outside of Asia, commanding approximately 35% of global matcha exports from Japan. This remarkable position reflects the country’s evolving consumer preferences toward premium health-focused beverages and functional ingredients. The American matcha market has experienced explosive growth, expanding from a niche Japanese tea product to a mainstream superfood ingredient found in everything from lattes to energy bars.

Key market drivers include the wellness movement, the rise of specialty coffee culture, and increasing consumer awareness of matcha’s health benefits, including its high antioxidant content and sustained energy release. The proliferation of matcha-focused cafes in major metropolitan areas and the adoption of matcha by mainstream chains like Starbucks have further accelerated market penetration. This market matters because it represents not only significant commercial opportunity but also serves as a trendsetting influence for global matcha consumption patterns, with American consumer preferences often predicting worldwide trends.

2. Market Overview

Matcha market growth chart The U.S. matcha market is experiencing rapid growth across multiple channels

Market Size and Growth Trajectory

The U.S. matcha market reached $2.8 billion in 2024, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% since 2020. Industry analysts project the market will exceed $4.5 billion by 2028, driven by expanding applications beyond traditional tea preparation. The wholesale segment accounts for approximately 65% of total market value, with food service representing the largest channel at 40%, followed by retail at 35%, and industrial applications at 25%.

Import Statistics and Trade Dynamics

The United States imported approximately 3,200 metric tons of matcha in 2024, with Japan supplying 78% of total imports, followed by China (15%), South Korea (5%), and other origins (2%). Import values have increased by 45% over the past three years, reflecting both volume growth and premiumization trends. California ports handle 52% of matcha imports, followed by New York/New Jersey (28%) and Seattle (12%). The average CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value for Japanese ceremonial grade matcha stands at $125 per kilogram, while culinary grades average $35-60 per kilogram.

Consumer Demographics and Behavior

Primary matcha consumers in the U.S. skew younger and more affluent than the general population. Millennials and Gen Z represent 68% of regular matcha consumers, with household incomes averaging 25% above the national median. Geographic concentration remains highest in coastal metropolitan areas, with Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland accounting for 40% of national consumption. Consumer surveys indicate that 72% of matcha purchasers cite health benefits as their primary motivation, followed by taste preference (18%) and social media influence (10%).

Popular Applications and Product Innovation

Matcha latte and various matcha products Matcha applications have expanded far beyond traditional tea preparation

The American market has demonstrated remarkable creativity in matcha applications. Traditional tea preparation accounts for only 30% of consumption, with matcha lattes representing the largest single application at 35%. Food applications have expanded rapidly, including ice cream (8%), baked goods (7%), smoothies and protein shakes (10%), energy bars and snacks (5%), and cosmetics/skincare (5%). The emergence of ready-to-drink matcha beverages has created a new $450 million subcategory, growing at 25% annually.

Key Market Trends

Several trends are reshaping the U.S. matcha landscape. The premiumization trend has led to increased demand for single-origin, ceremonial-grade products, with consumers willing to pay premium prices for traceable, artisanal matcha. The organic segment has expanded to represent 45% of total market value, reflecting broader clean-label preferences. Functional enhancement through added adaptogens, probiotics, and CBD has created new product subcategories. The sustainability focus has driven demand for plastic-free packaging and carbon-neutral supply chains.

Competitive Landscape

The U.S. matcha market features a diverse competitive environment with established Japanese brands, emerging domestic players, and private label offerings. Market leaders include Ito En (12% market share), Aiya (10%), DoMatcha (8%), and Jade Leaf (7%). The market has seen significant consolidation, with major food companies acquiring specialty matcha brands to establish market presence. Distribution strategies vary significantly, with direct-to-consumer e-commerce representing the fastest-growing channel at 30% annual growth.

3. Regulatory Environment

FDA and USDA certification symbols Navigating U.S. import regulations requires comprehensive compliance strategies

Import Requirements and Compliance

Importing matcha into the United States requires compliance with multiple federal agencies’ regulations. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) serves as the primary regulatory body, requiring all matcha importers to register their facilities and file Prior Notice before shipment arrival. Importers must obtain an FDA Establishment Identifier and ensure their foreign suppliers are registered under the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP). The Bioterrorism Act mandates detailed record-keeping of all import transactions, including supplier information, shipping records, and distribution documentation.

Food Safety Standards and Testing

The FDA enforces strict food safety standards for matcha imports under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). All matcha must meet maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides, with the EPA setting tolerances significantly stricter than many origin countries. Heavy metal testing is mandatory, with limits of 0.2 ppm for lead, 0.3 ppm for cadmium, and 1.0 ppm for arsenic. Microbiological standards require absence of pathogens including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Many importers implement additional voluntary testing for radioactivity, particularly for Japanese-origin matcha, to address consumer concerns following the Fukushima incident.

Organic Certification Requirements

USDA Organic certification for matcha requires compliance throughout the supply chain. Foreign producers must be certified by USDA-accredited certifying agents or operate under equivalency arrangements. The National Organic Program (NOP) maintains strict standards for cultivation, processing, and handling, prohibiting synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and processing aids. Importers must maintain organic certificates for all suppliers and ensure unbroken chain-of-custody documentation. The certification process typically requires annual inspections and can add 15-20% to procurement costs.

Labeling Regulations and Compliance

FDA labeling requirements for matcha products are comprehensive and strictly enforced. Nutrition Facts panels must follow the updated 2020 format, including added sugars declaration and updated serving sizes. Country of origin labeling is mandatory under CBP regulations. Health claims require FDA approval, while structure/function claims must include disclaimer statements. The term “organic” can only be used with valid USDA certification. California’s Proposition 65 requires additional warnings for products containing listed chemicals, affecting many matcha products due to naturally occurring lead content.

Customs Procedures and Documentation

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) classifies matcha under HTS code 0902.10.10 for green tea in packages under 3 kilograms, with a duty rate of 6.4%. Required documentation includes commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, phytosanitary certificates, and certificates of analysis. The Importer Security Filing (ISF) must be submitted 24 hours before vessel departure. Customs bonds are required for all commercial imports, with continuous bonds recommended for regular importers.

4. Supplier Landscape

Types of Suppliers in the U.S. Market

The American matcha supply chain encompasses diverse supplier categories, each serving distinct market segments. Direct Japanese producers offer the highest quality products with full traceability but require larger minimum orders and longer lead times. Trading companies and importers provide consolidated shipments and easier payment terms, making them popular with mid-sized buyers. Domestic distributors maintain inventory for quick fulfillment but typically offer limited customization options. Private label manufacturers enable brand development without direct import complexity. Co-packers specializing in matcha provide formulation and packaging services for finished products.

Top 10 U.S. Matcha Suppliers Comparison

SupplierOrigin FocusMOQPrice Range ($/kg)Lead TimeSpecialization
Aiya AmericaJapan20kg$45-1804-6 weeksCeremonial & culinary grades
Ito En North AmericaJapan25kg$40-1503-5 weeksBulk industrial supply
DoMatcha USAJapan10kg$60-2004-8 weeksPremium ceremonial focus
Jade Leaf MatchaJapan/China5kg$30-1202-4 weeksOrganic specialty
Mizuba Tea Co.Japan5kg$80-2506-10 weeksSingle-origin premium
Midori SpringJapan10kg$50-1804-6 weeksOrganic ceremonial
Matcha SourceJapan15kg$45-1603-6 weeksDirect trade focus
Republic of TeaMultiple20kg$35-1002-4 weeksPrivate label services
Tenzo TeaJapan/China10kg$40-1403-5 weeksFood service specialty
Sunfood SuperfoodsMultiple25kg$25-801-3 weeksBulk organic supplier

Detailed Supplier Profiles

Aiya America operates as the U.S. subsidiary of Japan’s largest matcha producer, maintaining a 30,000 square foot facility in California. They offer pharmaceutical-grade testing capabilities and custom blending services. Their vertical integration from farm to cup ensures consistent quality and competitive pricing for large-volume buyers. The company pioneered many matcha applications in the U.S. food industry and maintains strong R&D capabilities.

Ito En North America leverages its parent company’s extensive tea expertise to provide comprehensive matcha solutions. Their strength lies in supply chain reliability and technical support for industrial applications. They maintain strategic inventory reserves and offer extended payment terms for qualified accounts. Their quality assurance program exceeds FDA requirements, including voluntary third-party audits.

Jade Leaf Matcha has built a strong position in the organic segment through direct relationships with family farms in Uji and Kagoshima. They offer transparent sourcing information and maintain BRC certification for food safety. Their e-commerce platform serves both B2B and B2C channels, providing flexibility for growing businesses. The company specializes in education and training support for retail partners.

Minimum Order Quantities and Pricing Structures

MOQ requirements vary significantly based on supplier type and product grade. Japanese direct suppliers typically require 20-50kg minimum orders for ceremonial grades, while culinary grades may have 100kg minimums. Domestic distributors often offer lower MOQs of 5-10kg but at premium prices. Volume discounts generally begin at 100kg orders, with 10-15% reductions common. Annual contracts can secure additional 5-10% discounts and price protection. Seasonal pricing fluctuations affect ceremonial grades more than culinary, with spring harvest commanding 20-30% premiums.

Payment Terms and Financial Considerations

Payment structures in the U.S. matcha market reflect varying risk appetites and relationships. Japanese suppliers typically require 30-50% deposits with balance due before shipment via wire transfer. Established importers may obtain 30-60 day payment terms after credit approval. Letters of credit remain common for new relationships exceeding $50,000. Domestic distributors generally offer Net 30 terms with approved credit, while some provide 2/10 Net 30 discounts. Currency hedging becomes important for large contracts, as yen fluctuations can significantly impact costs.

5. Procurement Guide

Shipping containers at port Strategic procurement planning ensures smooth import operations

Step-by-Step Import Process

Successfully importing matcha into the United States requires systematic planning and execution. Begin by obtaining an FDA Facility Registration and Importer of Record number from CBP. Identify and vet potential suppliers through samples and facility audits, ensuring they meet FDA Foreign Supplier Verification Program requirements. Negotiate terms including Incoterms, payment conditions, and quality specifications. Arrange pre-shipment testing for pesticides, heavy metals, and microbiological parameters through accredited laboratories. Secure required documentation including phytosanitary certificates, certificates of analysis, and organic certificates if applicable.

Coordinate shipping logistics, selecting between air freight for urgent needs or ocean freight for cost optimization. File the Importer Security Filing (ISF) 24 hours before vessel departure. Arrange customs clearance through a licensed customs broker, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate. Plan warehouse receipt and quality control inspection procedures. Establish inventory management systems to maintain FIFO rotation and optimal storage conditions at 65-70°F with 50-60% humidity.

Documentation Requirements

Critical import documentation includes the commercial invoice detailing product description, quantities, values, and terms of sale. The packing list must specify carton numbers, weights, and dimensions. Bills of lading or airway bills serve as contracts with carriers and evidence of shipment. Phytosanitary certificates from origin country authorities confirm pest-free status. Certificates of analysis from accredited laboratories verify compliance with U.S. standards. FDA Prior Notice confirmation numbers must accompany all shipments. Organic certificates and transaction certificates maintain organic integrity. FSVP documentation demonstrates supplier verification compliance.

Cost Breakdown Analysis

Import cost infographic concept Understanding total landed costs is crucial for pricing strategy

Total landed costs for matcha imports extend beyond product prices. Product costs range from $25-250 per kilogram depending on grade and origin. International shipping adds $0.50-2.00 per kilogram for ocean freight or $4-8 per kilogram for air freight. Customs duties at 6.4% apply to product value. Customs brokerage fees typically range $150-500 per shipment. FDA examination fees, if selected, add $200-2,000. Testing costs average $500-1,500 per batch for comprehensive analysis. Insurance runs 0.5-1% of shipment value. Domestic transportation from port to warehouse costs $500-2,000 depending on distance. Storage fees average $20-40 per pallet monthly.

Timeline Expectations

Realistic timeline planning prevents supply disruptions. Supplier identification and vetting requires 2-4 weeks. Sample evaluation and approval takes 1-2 weeks. Contract negotiation typically spans 1-2 weeks. Production lead times vary from 2-6 weeks depending on customization requirements. Pre-shipment testing adds 3-5 days. Ocean shipping from Japan takes 14-21 days, while air freight requires 2-4 days. Customs clearance typically completes within 2-5 days absent issues. Domestic transportation adds 1-5 days. Total procurement cycles range from 6-12 weeks for ocean shipments or 4-8 weeks for air freight.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Pesticide residue violations represent the most frequent import challenge, addressed through rigorous pre-shipment testing and supplier verification. Quality inconsistency between samples and bulk shipments requires detailed specifications and inspection protocols. Communication barriers with Japanese suppliers benefit from cultural awareness and potentially local agents. Payment risk mitigation involves trade credit insurance or letter of credit arrangements. Supply chain disruptions demand contingency planning with multiple qualified suppliers. Storage degradation prevention requires climate-controlled facilities and proper packaging. Price volatility management benefits from forward contracts and strategic inventory planning.

6. Pricing Intelligence

Wholesale Price Range Analysis

Current wholesale matcha pricing in the U.S. market reflects quality grades, origin, and certification status. Ceremonial grade Japanese matcha ranges from $80-250 per kilogram, with super-premium single-origin products commanding up to $400. Premium culinary grades price between $45-80 per kilogram, while standard culinary grades range from $25-45. Chinese-origin matcha typically prices 40-60% below equivalent Japanese grades. Organic certification adds 15-25% premium across all categories. Private label pricing includes 20-30% margins above bulk rates.

Retail Price Benchmarking

Retail markups on matcha products typically range from 100-300% above wholesale costs. Ceremonial grade matcha retails at $30-80 per 30-gram tin, representing $1,000-2,667 per kilogram. Culinary grades retail at $15-30 per 100-gram package, or $150-300 per kilogram. Ready-to-drink matcha beverages price at $3-6 per 12-ounce bottle. Matcha latte mixes command $20-35 per 200-gram container. Food service operations typically charge $4-7 for matcha lattes, representing 300-500% markups on ingredient costs.

Price Influencing Factors

Multiple variables affect matcha pricing dynamics. Harvest timing significantly impacts costs, with first flush (ichiban-cha) commanding 30-50% premiums over later harvests. Regional origin within Japan creates price differentiation, with Uji and Nishio products priced 20-40% above other regions. Processing methods affect pricing, with stone-ground matcha priced 25% higher than machine-ground alternatives. Packaging format influences costs, with nitrogen-flushed packaging adding $2-5 per kilogram. Order volume drives pricing, with 1,000kg+ orders achieving 15-25% discounts from list prices.

Negotiation Strategies

Effective price negotiation requires understanding supplier economics and market dynamics. Leverage competitive quotes while respecting long-term relationship value. Annual volume commitments can secure 10-20% discounts versus spot purchases. Flexible delivery schedules may yield 5-10% savings by allowing suppliers to optimize production. Payment terms affect pricing, with prepayment potentially securing 3-5% discounts. Bundle purchasing across multiple grades can improve overall pricing. Consider private label partnerships for better margins on premium products. Timing negotiations around harvest seasons can capture favorable pricing. Build relationships through regular communication and facility visits to access preferential terms.

7. Case Studies

Modern matcha café interior Premium matcha cafés have successfully educated American consumers about quality differentiation

Success Story 1: Chalait – Premium Matcha Café Chain

Chalait began as a single New York City location in 2015, founded by Amy Lin who discovered high-quality matcha during travels in Japan. The company differentiated itself by importing directly from a 180-year-old family farm in Nishio, Aichi Prefecture, ensuring consistent ceremonial-grade quality. Initial challenges included educating American consumers about matcha grades and justifying premium pricing of $6-8 per beverage.

The breakthrough came through a dual strategy of experiential marketing and strategic wholesale partnerships. Chalait hosted weekly matcha education sessions, building a community of enthusiasts who became brand ambassadors. Simultaneously, they developed a wholesale program supplying their signature matcha to high-end hotels and restaurants, creating additional revenue streams and brand visibility. By maintaining strict quality standards and refusing to compromise on sourcing despite cost pressures, Chalait built trust with discerning consumers.

Key lessons from Chalait’s growth include the importance of supply chain transparency in premium positioning. Direct sourcing relationships, while requiring more initial investment and complexity, provide storytelling opportunities that resonate with conscious consumers. The company’s success in expanding to six locations and achieving $8 million annual revenue demonstrates that Americans will pay premium prices for authentic, high-quality matcha when properly educated about product differentiation.

Success Story 2: Navitas Organics – Scaling Organic Matcha Distribution

Organic matcha packaging on retail shelf The organic segment represents 45% of U.S. matcha market value

Navitas Organics transformed from a small superfood importer to a major matcha supplier by focusing on the organic wholesale segment. Starting with a single Japanese organic supplier in 2016, they recognized early that mainstream retailers needed reliable, certified organic matcha sources. The company invested heavily in supply chain development, establishing relationships with five certified organic producers across Japan and China to ensure supply stability.

Their innovation lay in creating tiered product lines that met diverse market needs while maintaining organic certification. They developed three distinct grades – ceremonial, premium culinary, and ingredient-grade – each with specific applications and price points. This segmentation allowed them to serve everyone from premium tea shops to industrial food manufacturers. Critical to their success was investing in extensive third-party testing that exceeded FDA requirements, building trust with major retail chains wary of contamination issues.

By 2024, Navitas had captured 15% of the U.S. organic matcha wholesale market, with distribution in over 10,000 retail locations. Their success demonstrates the importance of supply chain redundancy and quality assurance in scaling distribution. The company’s ability to maintain 99.5% order fulfillment rates while growing revenue to $45 million annually showcases the value of operational excellence in commodity markets.

Best Practices Derived

These cases reveal critical success factors for the U.S. matcha market. First, differentiation through quality and transparency commands premium pricing, as educated consumers value authenticity. Second, building direct supplier relationships, though complex, provides competitive advantages in quality control and storytelling. Third, investment in consumer education pays long-term dividends by expanding the addressable market. Fourth, diversification across channels – retail, food service, and e-commerce – provides stability and growth opportunities. Finally, maintaining unwavering quality standards builds brand equity that survives market volatility and competition.

8. Cultural Considerations

Business Etiquette with Japanese Suppliers

Successful relationships with Japanese matcha suppliers require understanding and respecting cultural nuances. Initial meetings should begin with formal introductions and exchange of business cards (meishi) using both hands, studying the card briefly before carefully storing it. Punctuality is essential – arriving even five minutes late is considered disrespectful. Dress conservatively in dark business attire, avoiding flashy accessories or strong fragrances.

Communication styles differ significantly from typical American directness. Japanese suppliers often communicate indirectly, requiring careful attention to non-verbal cues and implied meanings. “It’s difficult” often means “no,” while extended silence indicates contemplation rather than disagreement. Avoid interrupting or rushing decisions, as consensus-building takes time in Japanese business culture.

Negotiation Approaches

Negotiation with Japanese suppliers requires patience and relationship-focus over aggressive tactics. Build trust through multiple meetings before discussing prices or terms. Avoid confrontational negotiation styles or ultimatums, which damage relationships irreparably. Present requests as mutual benefit opportunities rather than demands. Prepare detailed proposals in writing, as Japanese partners appreciate thoroughness and planning. Expect multiple rounds of discussion with gradual progress rather than quick agreements.

Payment Preferences and Financial Protocols

Japanese suppliers typically prefer wire transfers through established banks, viewing newer payment methods skeptically. Maintain impeccable payment records, as late payments severely damage trust. Many Japanese companies operate on fiscal years ending in March, affecting pricing and availability negotiations. Respect the importance of written contracts while understanding that relationship trust often supersedes legal documents in dispute resolution.

Relationship Building Strategies

Long-term relationship cultivation yields superior results over transactional approaches. Regular communication beyond business transactions, including holiday greetings and company updates, strengthens partnerships. Face-to-face meetings, despite cost, demonstrate commitment valued by Japanese partners. Hosting supplier visits to U.S. operations builds mutual understanding. Learning basic Japanese phrases shows respect, though business discussions typically occur in English. Gift-giving follows specific protocols – present quality items from your region with both hands, wrapped elegantly. Reciprocate hospitality when visiting Japan, and maintain relationships even during slow business periods.

9. Resources and Tools

Government Resources

The FDA Import Program provides comprehensive guidance through its FURLS (FDA Unified Registration and Listing System) portal for facility registration and Prior Notice filing. The USDA National Organic Program maintains updated lists of certifying agents and international trade agreements. The U.S. Commercial Service offers Japan market intelligence and matchmaking services through offices in Tokyo and Osaka. The International Trade Administration publishes quarterly tea import statistics and market analysis reports.

Industry Associations

The Tea Association of the USA provides regulatory updates, market research, and networking opportunities specifically relevant to matcha importers. The Specialty Food Association offers trade show participation and buyer connections. The U.S. Tea Association maintains testing protocol standards and supplier directories. The Organic Trade Association advocates for organic tea importers and provides certification resources. The National Coffee Association increasingly covers matcha as café beverage offerings expand.

Testing Laboratories

Eurofins Scientific operates FDA-registered laboratories specializing in pesticide residue and heavy metal testing for tea products. Anresco Laboratories provides comprehensive matcha analysis including radioactivity testing. Covance Food Solutions offers expedited testing services for import clearance. NSF International conducts organic certification verification testing. These laboratories typically provide results within 3-5 business days for standard analyses.

Useful Contacts

Key contacts include FDA Import Operations at 1-800-216-7331 for entry questions, USDA Organic Program at organic@usda.gov for certification inquiries, and CBP Import Specialist Teams for classification issues. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) maintains U.S. offices providing supplier introductions. Specialized customs brokers like Flexport and Expeditors International offer matcha-specific import expertise. Industry consultants such as World Tea Academy provide training and market entry support.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the minimum order quantity for importing matcha directly from Japan? A: Most Japanese suppliers require 20-50kg minimums for direct import, though some premium ceremonial grades may be available at 10kg minimums. Consolidators can offer smaller quantities but at higher per-unit costs.

Q: Do I need special licenses to import matcha into the United States? A: While no specific matcha license exists, you need FDA Facility Registration, a CBP Importer of Record number, and potentially organic certification depending on your products. State-level food handling permits may apply for repackaging operations.

Q: How long does matcha remain fresh after importation? A: Properly stored matcha maintains peak quality for 6-12 months in unopened packaging. Once opened, ceremonial grades should be consumed within 30-60 days, while culinary grades last 60-90 days.

Q: What’s the typical markup from wholesale to retail for matcha products? A: Retail markups range from 100-300% above wholesale costs, with specialty stores achieving higher margins than mass market retailers. Food service applications often yield 300-500% markups.

Q: Can I import matcha directly from China instead of Japan? A: Yes, Chinese matcha is legal to import and typically costs 40-60% less than Japanese equivalents. However, market perception strongly favors Japanese origin, affecting pricing power and target demographics.

Q: What testing is required for organic matcha certification? A: Organic matcha requires testing for prohibited pesticides, verification of organic certificates throughout the supply chain, and annual facility inspections by USDA-accredited certifiers.

Q: How do I verify the authenticity of Japanese matcha suppliers? A: Request business registration documents (Touki-bo), check references from current U.S. importers, verify through JETRO offices, and consider third-party audits for significant volumes.

Q: What are typical payment terms for established importers? A: New relationships usually require 30-50% deposits with balance before shipping. Established importers may obtain Net 30-60 terms after credit approval and relationship building.

Q: Should I import matcha by air or ocean freight? A: Ocean freight costs 75% less but takes 3-4 weeks longer. Use air for initial orders, urgent needs, or super-premium grades where freshness justifies cost premiums.

Q: How do I handle FDA detention or sampling at port of entry? A: Immediately provide requested documentation, arrange for sample collection by accredited laboratories, and work with experienced customs brokers familiar with FDA procedures. Detentions typically resolve within 5-10 business days with proper documentation.

Q: What’s the best time of year to negotiate matcha prices? A: Optimal negotiation timing is September-November after harvest assessment but before peak holiday demand. Spring harvest pre-orders in February-March can secure quality allocations.

Q: Do I need product liability insurance for importing matcha? A: Yes, most U.S. buyers require minimum $1-2 million product liability coverage. Costs typically run $2,000-5,000 annually depending on volume and distribution channels.

Q: How do California Proposition 65 requirements affect matcha imports? A: Proposition 65 requires warning labels for products containing listed chemicals including lead. Most matcha requires warnings due to naturally occurring trace metals, affecting packaging and marketing strategies.

Q: What storage conditions are required for wholesale matcha inventory? A: Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F with 50-60% relative humidity. Avoid light exposure and temperature fluctuations. Nitrogen-flushed packaging extends shelf life significantly.

Q: Can I private label Japanese suppliers’ matcha under my own brand? A: Yes, most suppliers offer private labeling with minimums typically starting at 100-200kg. Services include custom packaging, label design, and exclusive blends for qualified accounts.

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