The history of Taiwanese white tea dates back to the early 20th century. Although its production volume and fame worldwide may not rival Fujian white tea, Taiwanese white tea enjoyed a golden age under unique historical trade conditions.
The Golden Age and Decline of Taiwanese White Tea
According to Historical Records of White Tea Trade published by the China Tea Company, Taiwanese white tea flourished in the Hong Kong market from the 1950s to the 1970s. During that period, white tea exports from Fujian and Guangdong were unstable, while demand for entry-level and mid-range white teas in Hong Kong was strong. Thanks to steady pricing and supply, Taiwanese white tea quickly captured the market. In 1958, Taiwanese white tea accounted for 65.11% of Hong Kong’s white tea market, rising to 77% in 1961. By 1965, sales exceeded 10,000 piculs (about 500 metric tons), far surpassing Fujian white tea. However, as Fujian stabilized its production and expanded exports in the late 1970s, Taiwan’s market share steadily shrank. Taiwanese white tea eventually exited the Hong Kong market after the 1980s, bringing its glory era to a close.
The Revival of Taiwanese White Tea After 2016
Starting in 2013, white tea gained popularity in mainland China due to its perceived health benefits, prompting tea producers in Taiwan to begin researching and developing white tea in 2016. Compared to Fujian white tea, Taiwanese white tea leverages the island’s unique environment and tea cultivars to create High Mountain white tea, Winter Sprout Oolong white tea, and Ruby white tea, as well as “Honey Aroma white tea” crafted using tea leafhopper feeding techniques. These specialty white teas have won over tea lovers. Some Taiwanese tea farmers have even shifted from traditional autumn/winter oolong production to white tea, fostering a vibrant, diverse lineup that continues to gain market traction.
Future Outlook for Taiwanese White Tea
Having experienced a cycle of boom and decline throughout history, Taiwanese white tea has enjoyed a steady revival since 2016, carving out a fresh path defined by Taiwan’s distinct terroir and tea varieties. One day, white tea might even challenge oolong as Taiwan’s most popular tea variety.