Tea-based food products. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Zhejiang province has become the world's largest matcha production base, with raw tea output exceeding 2 billion yuan ($278.7 million) in 2024, according to the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

Officials said at a July 17 news conference that new-style tea beverages and tea-based food products have become key drivers for the local tea industry. At the 7th China International Tea Expo, products such as Jiuyu's matcha ice cream, Longjing wheat beer, and tea-infused snacks drew strong consumer interest. The province is now prioritizing scientific research, standard-setting, and digital production across the industry chain, particularly for major varieties like Longjing and white tea.

To ensure traceability, Zhejiang has introduced a digital tracking system using the Zhejiang Agricultural Code for Longjing raw tea. So far, 23 companies have adopted the system, issuing more than 1 million traceability labels.

The province also plans to strengthen raw material bases, expand organic certification, and support start-ups through industrial parks and logistics infrastructure. Officials said a new generation of high-tech tea companies is emerging, positioning Zhejiang as a global leader in modern tea development.