Why first-harvest tencha prices moved this spring.

Spring came two weeks late to Uji this year, and the tencha market noticed. Prices for first-harvest leaf closed about 9% above last season — not a shock, but enough to plan around.

1. The shading period stretched

Cool nights slowed leaf growth, so farms kept the shade covers on longer. Longer shading means more chlorophyll and more umami — good for quality — but lower yields per hectare, and yield is where price starts.

2. Ceremonial-grade demand keeps compounding

Café chains in North America and Europe have moved matcha from seasonal special to year-round menu item. Ceremonial-grade tencha is finite.

3. What it means for buyers

Reserve your first-harvest allocation early, lock blends rather than hoping spot prices soften, and consider a two-grade strategy.