Foreign trade orders for green tea continued to rebound in September, with Chunmee tea and Gunpowder tea remaining the primary drivers of China's bulk green tea exports. In early September 2026, the domestic green tea export market experienced a surge in replenishment orders. Data from tea export hubs in Zhejiang indicates a marked month-on-month increase in inquiries, sample requests, and confirmed orders from overseas importers, with demand growing most significantly for traditional pan-fired green teas-specifically Chunmee tea and Gunpowder tea These orders are primarily destined for markets in Morocco, various West African nations, and Central Asia. Consumers in these regions have a long-standing habit of drinking Chinese green tea daily, favoring bulk pan-fired varieties that offer good value for money and withstand multiple infusions. When selecting suppliers, overseas buyers prioritize factories at the source that possess comprehensive capabilities for both primary and refined processing; they prefer manufacturers capable of stable supply, custom blending, and third-party testing over mere trading intermediaries. Industry analysts note that Gunpowder tea-characterized by dense, pellet-like leaves, rich aroma, and durability across multiple infusions-suits local consumption habits involving brewing in large bowls. Meanwhile, Chunmee tea features tightly curled, slender leaves, a distinct chestnut aroma, and a mellow, sweet-aftertaste flavor profile; both varieties have cultivated a stable consumer base through decades of market development. The September order rebound reflects both advance stocking by overseas clients for the traditional fourth-quarter peak season and the international market's continued recognition of China's standardized, refined green teas. Factories in production regions are currently organizing sample preparation and actively coordinating with overseas clients regarding testing, packaging, and delivery schedules.
