Tariffs make tea brewing in US expensive

While coffee remains a cultural obsession in the United States, Chinese tea consumption has also grown significantly in popularity. Many have begun sharing their passion for it and encouraging others to embrace a more balanced lifestyle.

However, a cloud of uncertainty now looms. Recently, increasing numbers of Americans have expressed concern over the rising prices of their favorite imported Chinese teas, a consequence of tariffs imposed by the US government.

Here in Los Angeles, a city known for its bustling tea houses, Chinese tea drinkers are reluctantly reducing their purchases due to the uncertainty caused by tariffs. Raul Alberto is one such individual.

About a decade ago, feeling work-related pressure, he had an unexpected encounter with a late-night tea house in LA's Koreatown.

"Nowadays, tea prices in America are set to skyrocket following the tariff turmoil. I am a Chinese tea lover. The more I drank it, the more I grew fonder of it. But now, I can barely afford it due to the rising prices," he said.

"Some people say we can grow Chinese tea in America and bring all the tea-related jobs back. Well, that's ridiculous. I know tea plants require specific altitudes and climates to survive. Growing my favorite Chinese Longjing tea in California? Mission impossible!" he stated.

"I have a friend who sells Chinese tea here. He told me that if tea continues to face some of the toughest tariffs, he might only be able to sustain his business for four or five months," he added.

Tea has played a significant role in the history of China-US relations.

In February 1784, the American merchant ship Empress of China departed New York for Guangzhou, China. Five months later, it became the first US vessel to reach China after the nation's founding. Loaded with tea, it returned to New York in May 1785, marking the beginning of China-US trade. Today, the United States is home to many Chinese tea enthusiasts, as well as specialized shops selling Chinese tea and teaware.

As the story of tea continues to unfold across the Pacific, the economic and trade relationship between China and the US has continued to grow.

According to Chinese customs data, Chinese tea exports to the US reached over $61 million last year, reflecting strong and consistent demand in the US market. The premium Chinese teas favored by American consumers are unique and unavailable from other countries or regions. Cultivating and producing these teas in the US is also unrealistic.

Recently, China and the US held a high-level meeting on economic and trade affairs in Geneva. The positive outcomes were welcomed by the business sectors and investors of both countries, who believe it meets the expectations of producers and consumers alike and serves mutual interests. It is widely anticipated that China and the US will continue resolving trade issues through dialogue. As long as both countries adhere to the principles of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, they can certainly find the right way to address each other's concerns.

Although China and the US differ in culture, history, and national conditions, they share a love for tea. Enjoying tea is a leisure activity, yet within this common interest lies a fundamental aspect of humanity: understanding, exchange, and cooperation have always been the path to human progress.